Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Carlos Estévez, Kansas City Royals closer and 2025 saves leader, has endured a nightmare 2026 season marked by multiple injuries. After suffering a left foot contusion from a Michael Harris II comebacker on Opening Day, he was sidelined for over a month. Upon beginning a Triple-A rehab assignment in early May, he experienced shoulder discomfort after just two outs and was diagnosed with a right rotator cuff strain. He will be shut down from throwing for three weeks with reevaluation at end of May. Even before the shoulder injury, Estévez showed concerning velocity issues throughout spring training and the World Baseball Classic, averaging 89.4 mph on his fastball—nearly 7 mph below his 2025 levels. His rehab appearance showed velocity at 88-90 mph, maxing out at 91.1 mph. The earliest realistic return date is mid-to-late June pending successful progression through bullpen sessions and live batting practice.
Strengths
- + 2025 saves leader demonstrates proven closer pedigree
- + Royals organization showing patience and caution with recovery process
- + Manager Matt Quatraro reports Estévez not overly concerned about shoulder discomfort
- + Reports of promising velocity improvements during recent bullpen work prior to rehab appearance
Injury Status: IL-15 -- Right rotator cuff strain; previously suffered left foot contusion from line drive on Opening Day. Shut down from throwing for three weeks as of early May 2026, with mid-to-late June target for return. Velocity significantly diminished (88-90 mph vs. normal 95+ mph).
About
Estiven Machado is a shortstop for the Colorado Rockies.
Player Overview
SS
Colorado Rockies