The New York Yankees are eyeing upgrades to their bullpen, and one name generating serious buzz is Carlos Estevez. The two-time All-Star has emerged as a prime target as teams prepare for the trade deadline, with the Yankees reportedly monitoring him for several months.

Estevez has been having a strong season. He has posted a 2.36 ERA over 42 innings with 25 saves and just five blown opportunities. His fastball continues to be a weapon, and his slider has kept hitters off balance. Those numbers, combined with his playoff experience and ability to handle high-leverage moments, have made him one of the most sought-after relievers available.

With the Yankees' bullpen dealing with inconsistency and a lack of reliable late-inning options, Estevez could be the kind of trusted arm they need to stabilize the unit. The current mix has struggled to close games effectively, and while younger relievers have shown flashes of potential, none have firmly claimed the closer or setup role.

Estevez brings versatility. He has experience as both a closer and a setup man. He has played key roles for the Rockies, Angels, Phillies, and Royals throughout his career, adjusting seamlessly to whatever role is asked of him. While his strikeout numbers have slightly dipped, his command and efficiency have improved. He continues to limit hard contact and walks, proving he can still be a reliable anchor in any bullpen.

The 32-year-old signed a two-year deal worth $22 million with Kansas City this past offseason. His contract runs through the 2026 season with a club option for 2027. That team control makes him even more valuable as teams are not only looking for rentals but also arms that can contribute beyond this year.

The Yankees’ interest in Estevez is well-aligned with the team’s philosophy. Under pitching coach Matt Blake, New York has developed a reputation for getting the most out of veteran relievers. Estevez’s profile matches well with the team's system. He is durable, composed under pressure, and has a fastball-slider combo that fits the Yankees’ pitching blueprint.

If Estevez were to join the Yankees, he would likely step into a late-inning role and could even compete for closing duties depending on matchups and performance. His postseason experience and mental toughness would bring much-needed stability to a bullpen that has lacked a consistent anchor in critical moments this season.

Financially, his deal is manageable. The Yankees would not need to give up top-tier prospects to land him, and his salary is already accounted for. That gives the front office room to negotiate without compromising the team’s long-term plans.

Other contenders are also showing interest in Estevez, making the trade market competitive. However, the Yankees' need is clear. They are in the thick of the American League race and cannot afford to rely on an overworked or unsteady bullpen as October approaches.

If the team wants to strengthen its chances of winning tight playoff games, adding Estevez makes sense. He is experienced, in form, and under control for multiple seasons. In a crowded field of contenders, New York may just have to move fast before another team snatches him up.

As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes remain on him. The Yankees are watching; now, the question is whether they will act.