Houston Astros Predicted to Reunite With Star Reliever This Offseason

The Houston Astros are expected to have limited activity this offseason as owner Jim Crane wants to keep the 2024 payroll around the same number as last year's.

Bullpen is really the only area that they'll need to address before the start of the season.

Three of their relievers departed in free agency and there's really only one prospect that could become an impact player for the Astros in 2024.

That's why Andy McCullough of The Athletic thinks that Houston will reunite with their former reliever Hector Neris.

"A consistent theme for Houston is keeping the band together, at least for as long as Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman and Kyle Tucker are all on the roster. That may change after 2024. So might as well bring back Neris, who cut down on his walks and dominated hitters during the previous two seasons in Houston," he wrote.

The right-hander was one of the best bullpen pieces for the Astros last season, posting an ERA of 1.71 across 71 appearances. Neris struggled in the playoffs, recording an ERA of 6.48 across seven games which may factor into the front office's decision making to bring him back.

However, there are limited proven options available on the market that would fit into Houston's self-imposed budget.

This should make Neris a viable option to return this offseason.

He's familiar with the organization and they're familiar with his strengths and weaknesses. New manager Joe Espada already has a relationship with the reliever as well, which could come into play.

Ultimately, the front office will be targeting bullpen pieces and a reunion with Neris makes a lot of sense for both parties.