Houston Astros may get back reliever who got away

The Houston Astros’ bullpen hasn’t exactly panned out the way they had hoped. Could they have a chance to bring back a key player who left the team last offseason?

As Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly looked for lesser-known trade candidates ahead of the MLB trade deadline, a former Houston pitcher found himself on the list. After signing with the Chicago Cubs in February, Hector Neris could already be on the move.

It appears Chicago won’t be in World Series contention this year and will likely trade players for whom they can get something in return. With Neris being a solid reliever with playoff experience on an expiring contract, he’s a prime trade candidate.

In 33 appearances in 2024, he has a 4.06 ERA and a 1.581 WHIP. He’s not as dominant as he was last year, but he still has plenty of energy left.

The 35-year-old has been under pressure this year. Typically a go-to guy, the Cubs have put him in a stopper role for most of this season.

He’s a completely different pitcher when he’s not in a save situation. As a closer this year, he has a 6.88 ERA in 19 chances. In his 14 non-save appearances, he has a 0.64 ERA, and his surrounding stats look more like his normal production.

Houston wouldn’t need him to be a definitive closer, even if Josh Hader East in the midst of a difficult period. Allowing Neris to return in a preparation role could mean big things.

While he likely has more than one suitor, his price tag shouldn’t be too high. He’s exactly the type of player the Astros should be looking for given their limited trade resources. What they have to offer for bigger players should be saved for more crucial additions.

Statistically, the relief team ranks in the middle of the league. While it hasn’t been bad, it hasn’t been great either.

Taking the risk of rediscovering some magic with a former team favorite with the ability to use it in situations he’s comfortable with seems like the right move.