The Chicago Cubs have a new reliever in Hector Neris, and on the surface that deal looks like a relative bargain.
The Cubs signed Neris to a one-year, $9 million deal. The contract gives the Cubs access to a pitcher that can close or perform as a set-up man for Adbert Alzolay, who saved 22 games last season.
Neris is getting less than just about every other significant reliever on the market. Yes, Josh Hader signed a deal worth nearly $100 with Neris’ former team, the Houston Astros. But other relievers have gotten better one-year deals than Neris, including former Cubs closer Aroldis Chapman (one-year, $10.5 million with Pittsburgh) and David Robertson (one-year, $11.5 million with the Rangers).
But there are details emerging, reports Ken Rosenthal at The Athletic. First, Neris’ contract comes with a second year, an additional $9 million that is a club option. That’s not necessarily security. But, Neris has been a solid performer of late.
In his last three seasons he’s posted an ERA below 4.00. Last season in Houston that ERA fell to 1.71 as he went 6-3. Neris has always had a high strikeout rate (11.2 per nine innings for his career). Even entering his age 35 season, his numbers have remained relatively consistent.
If Neris performs at his current level the Cubs would have every reason to bring him back in 2025.
But, Neris also has a trigger that can keep him in Chicago in 2025, if he chooses. If Neris makes 60 or more appearances in 2024, that $9 million team option turns into a $9 million player option.
Entering an age 36 season in 2025, Neris would be likely to trigger it, and it’s attainable. Neris has made at least 70 appearances in each of his last three seasons and has made 60 or more appearances in a season six times.
In other words, the Cubs signed a workhorse with quality stuff and a solid track record. On paper, Neris looks like a one-year Cub. But there’s every reason to believe he could be around longer.
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