The Houston Astros and veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel have agreed to a deal where he will join the big league team and bolster their bullpen; first reported by Jeff Pasen at ESPN. Kimbrel signed a minor-league contract with the Texas Rangers back in June and was released by them just a month later
He got in one appearance for the Atlanta Braves this season, throwing one inning
of shutout ball with a strikeout, a walk and a hit allowed.
His last full season was 2024, where he returned to the Atlanta Braves for his 15th season and finished the season with a 5.33 ERA in 57 appearances. He comes to the Astros with a career ERA under 2.50 and a strikeouts per nine over 14.
Kimbrel is no stranger to the Astros either. He was a big part of the 2017 Boston Red Sox, who were eliminated by the Astros in the ALDS on their way to the World Series.
He will likely help by slotting into the back end of the pen, fitting into a set-up or closer role, helping out Bryan Abreu with innings and filling the shoes of the injured Josh Hader. If Hader is able to return for the playoffs, there is no telling what Espada will do with him, Kimbrel and Abreu.
