Astros Release Former Closer After Being DFA'd

The Houston Astros' bullpen situation is a bit dire right now. With All-Star closer Josh Hader being shut down for three weeks, everyone has to move up a spot. But veteran reliever Hector Neris, who did not impress much in his 12 appearances with the team, will not be a part of that solution, after being DFA'd last week and refusing an outright to the minors. He's now been released.

RELEASED: #Astros released RHP Hector Neris after he elected free agency over an outright assignment to Triple-A.
— MLB Transaction Tracker (@MLBMovesTracker) August 16, 2025

Pitching for his third team this season, Neris surrendered 11 runs (seven earned) in 11.2 innings for Houston, and overall, has a 6.75 ERA on the season, including other stints with the LA Angels and Atlanta Braves.

Neris has been a closer at points in his career, including nabbing 17 saves for the Chicago Cubs in 2024. But his effectiveness has clearly waned considerably this season, at the age of 36.

He's a free agent once again, and we'll see if any other team wants to take a chance.

In a 12-year career, he has 107 saves and 3.47 ERA.