In a move that blends sentiment with strategy, the Houston Astros have signed veteran right-hander Héctor Neris to a Major League contract, officially activating the 36-year-old reliever for today’s game. The transaction, first reported by KPRC 2’s Ari Alexander and later confirmed by Matt Kawahara of the Houston Chronicle, comes after Neris was released by the Angels earlier this week. To make room on the roster, right-hander Jason Alexander has been optioned to Triple-A.
A Logical Reunion
For the Astros, this isn’t just a flyer on a free agent—it’s a return to familiarity and proven value. Neris was a cornerstone of Houston’s bullpen during their 2022 World Series-winning campaign, logging a 2.69 ERA over 133 2/3 innings across the 2022-23 seasons, along with a dominant 1.50 ERA in the 2022 postseason. His intensity, durability, and veteran presence made him a clubhouse favorite.
After a brief and underwhelming stint with the Cubs in 2024, followed by short-lived opportunities with the Braves and Angels, Neris struggled to find consistency. He posted a combined 7.80 ERA in 15 innings this season, with a solid 29.4% strikeout rate overshadowed by an elevated walk rate (11.8%) and three home runs allowed. However, his 3.47 SIERA suggests underlying metrics that are far better than the surface numbers.
Why This Makes Sense Now
For Houston, this move is a low-risk, high-familiarity gamble. With one of the top-performing bullpens in MLB this season, the Astros aren’t desperate—they’re opportunistic. Adding Neris gives them a veteran who knows the system, the staff, and the pressure of postseason baseball. If he rediscovers his rhythm, the bullpen becomes even more dangerous. If not, the depth allows the team to pivot without much consequence.
Furthermore, Neris brings intangible value: experience, leadership, and postseason pedigree. In a competitive AL West, marginal gains like these could be the difference in a tight playoff race.
The Bottom Line
In reuniting with Héctor Neris, the Astros aren’t chasing nostalgia—they’re banking on track record, familiarity, and upside. It’s a savvy move for a team that doesn’t need to roll the dice but chooses to place a calculated bet anyway. And for Neris, Houston may once again be the place where he rekindles the best version of himself
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