It didn’t take long for former Philadelphia Phillies closer Héctor Neris to find a new team after being released by the Chicago Cubs earlier this week. Neris has joined the Houston Astros, a team that has been a familiar playoff rival for the Phillies.
By signing with the AL West-leading Astros, Neris is returning to the team where he previously enjoyed the most success in his career. As reported by Ari Alexander of KPRC2 Houston, Neris is back with the team where he had his most productive season last year and won his only World Series title.
Neris faced the Phillies in the 2022 World Series and made a significant impact, throwing three scoreless innings against them. Now with the Astros again, he brings a solid track record from his previous stint, including a 2.69 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, and 156 strikeouts over two seasons. He’ll look to replicate these numbers and vie for another World Series championship.
This season, Neris had some ups and downs with the Cubs and never seemed fully comfortable, though he still managed a respectable 3.89 ERA, 17 saves, and 46 strikeouts in 44 innings. However, he struggled with command, leading to a higher-than-usual number of walks and a 1.52 WHIP.
Neris previously spent eight seasons with the Phillies (2014-2021), posting a 3.42 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 520 strikeouts in 407 2/3 innings, including a career-high 28 saves in 2019. The Phillies had the opportunity to re-sign him but chose not to, a decision that might be tested if they face the Astros again in the World Series.
The Phillies have been inconsistent this season, showing moments of dominance and mediocrity. They recently won three of four games against the Washington Nationals and have won four of their last five. Their upcoming three-game series against the Atlanta Braves will be crucial as they look to solidify their lead in the National League East.
Despite leading the division by seven games, the Phillies’ performance has been uneven. Their pitching staff has been subpar, and while their lineup remains strong, it hasn’t been as effective as usual, and the bullpen has been unreliable.
The team’s pitching issues are surprising given their strong rotation. According to Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report, the pitching staff’s recent struggles are a major concern and could impact their playoff hopes. The staff, which had been solid in the first half, now has a 4.83 ERA in the second half.
The success of the Phillies may hinge on the performances of Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola. If they pitch up to their ace potential, it would greatly improve the team’s chances in the playoffs. Additionally, the return of Ranger Suárez, who was excellent before his injury with a 2.87 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 119 1/3 innings, could be a significant boost.
