2:56 pm:Neris’s deal is formal and he is active in today’s game. Right-handed Jason Alexander Triple-A has been selected in the corresponding move.
2:25 pm: Astronauts to sign right-handed Hector Neris KPRC 2’s Ari Alexander reported that he met the Major League Baseball contract. The Angels assigned Neris to serve the mission and then released the veteran reliefist this week after he cleared the waiver, but Neris didn’t have to wait for his next deal in the open market.
Neris released a 2.69 ERA for Houston’s 133 2/3 innings in the 2022-23 season, earning 1.50 ERA in six playoff innings during the Astros run to the 2022 World Series. He signed with the Cubs for a year, $9MM deal in the 2023-24 offseason, and Neris rejoined the Astros after Chicago released him last August, but didn’t really regain the Magic, offering only 4.70 ERA in 15 1/3 of the innings for the remainder of 2024.
This season, a pair of minor league contracts with the Braves saw Neris get MLB time at both clubs, while Neris shares a 7.80 ERA with both teams in 15 innings. Big 29.4% of the 3-point shooting was offset by 11.8% walking rate, while Neris allowed three home runs in a small sample of his major league events.
Neris’ 3.47 Siera may be a true reflection of his performance, which may be why Astros chose to guarantee the 36-year-old’s roster. His past favorites and clubhouse history in Houston has undoubtedly played a role as both sides will see if Neris can regain his old identity as a cattle-winning main force. The Astros’ bullpen has been one of the best in baseball this season, so the team has the luxury of auditioning for Neris to see if he can further deepen the rescue team.
