Astros’ reliever Hector Neris has declined a player option worth $8.5 million for 2024. This decision will make him a free agent during the offseason.
The 34-year-old pitcher was 6-3 with a 1.71 ERA and two saves in 71 games during the 2023 season, which was his third straight season of 70 or more appearances.
Neris however had a poor postseason. With a 6.48 ERA, he allowed home runs to Jorge Polanco and Royce Lewis during the AL Division Series Opener against the Minnesota Twins.
Neris declined the option on Sunday night, much to the disappointment of the Astros organization, who would like to re-sign him.
The Astros, who are prioritizing big-money extensions for stars José Altuve, Alex Bregman and Kyle Tucker, might prohibit a potential extension.
Neris isn’t the only member of the Astros bullpens hitting free agency, as Phil Maton and Ryne Stanek are set to test free agency waters.
The Astros will likely see Ryan Pressly, Bryan Abreu, Kendall Graves and Rafael Montero return.
