Cubs sign title-winning reliever to 1-year contract
Sep 14, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs batting helmet sits on the dugout rail before the Cubs play the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago Cubs handed out a big contract to a veteran reliever with World Series experience on Saturday.
The Cubs agreed to terms with reliever Hector Neris on a one-year deal worth $9 million, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. The deal includes a team option for a second year that will turn into a player option if Neris appears in 60 games or more.
Right-handed reliever Hector Neris and the Chicago Cubs are in agreement on a one-year, $9 million contract that includes an option for 2025, a source familiar with the deal tells ESPN.
The $9M team option converts to a player option at 60 games. Total max w incentives: $23.25M.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 27, 2024
Neris spent the last two years with the Houston Astros, where he was a key part of their bullpen during their 2022 World Series run. He is coming off an outstanding season that saw him post a 1.71 ERA in 71 appearances. The expectation is that the Cubs will make him a significant part of their bullpen.
The Cubs ultimately made their move on Neris amid reported interest from at least one other contender. It also fits with what the Cubs have been looking for, as they have been linked to at least one big move for a top reliever before this one.