Reports: RHP Hector Neris to reunite with Astros

Field Level Media|published: Thu 22nd August, 12:42 2024

Aug 10, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Hector Neris (51) reacts after delivering a final out against the Chicago White Sox during the ninth inning at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Veteran reliever Hector Neris will sign a contract to rejoin the Houston Astros, multiple outlets reported Thursday.

Neris previously pitched with the Astros in 2022 and 2023 before signing a one-year, $9 million contract with the Chicago Cubs in the offseason. The deal included a $9 million team option for 2025.

That would have converted to a player option provided he made 60 appearances or finished 45 games and was injury-free at the end of this season. Neris was released by the Cubs on Tuesday and cleared waivers.

Neris, 35, converted 17 of 22 save attempts and issued 26 walks over 44 innings while serving as the Cubs' closer this season. The right-hander is 8-4 with a 3.89 ERA in 46 relief appearances in 2024, finishing 33 games.

Neris is 41-40 with a 3.29 ERA and 106 saves in 592 career relief appearances with the Philadelphia Phillies (2014-21), Astros and Cubs.

--Field Level Media