Earlier this offseason, the Houston Astros traded superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs for a loaded haul in return. On Friday afternoon, Houston continued making moves when it agreed to terms on a deal with first baseman Christian Walker.
With the additions Houston's making, some players won't be back in 2025. Cody Williams of FanSided recently predicted the Astros would cut ties with reliever Hector Neris this winter. Neris is projected to sign a $5 million deal elsewhere, per Spotrac.
"If we're being real, what the Astros now likely plan to do with reliever Hector Neris is not solely related to the Walker trade," Williams wrote. "Rather, it's the totality of what Houston has been doing this offseason, which Walker is now a part of, that puts the writing on the wall for the 35-year-old right-hander.
"On top of that, former Cubs top prospect Hayden Wesneski is now in Houston by way of the Tucker trade. While he projects long-term as a starter, he could still be used out of the bullpen, further giving credence to the idea that Neris won't be returning to the 'Stros."
Cutting ties with Neris just makes sense. The Astros, as Williams states, are going all in this winter. They've made a few huge moves and there are likely a few more big moves to follow. All of these moves are to put the Astros in place to compete in 2025, 2026, and beyond.
Bringing Neris back wouldn't do that. The right-hander will likely pitch with a new team in 2025.
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