Cubs Sign Hector Neris to One-Year Deal

Neris is coming off one of the best seasons of his career. In just over 68.1 innings with the Houston Astros, he posted a 1.71 ERA with 77 strikeouts, 31 walks, and a 10.1 K/9 while holding opposing hitters to a .174 batting average. He also placed in at least the 90th percentile in pitching run value, fastball run value, expected batting average, average exit velocity, and hard-hit percentage.

The Neris signing, along with bringing back a familiar face in Carl Edwards Jr., shows that Jed Hoyer is focusing on building a solid bullpen for the 2024 season. Neris will more than likely take over the Cubs' setup role for closer Adbert Alzolay.

I’m normally not one to brag, but I claimed earlier this week that the Cubs should consider signing Neris. Does Hoyer listen to Cubs On Tap? I can’t confirm exactly, but it appears that way. What should I ask for next? A Cody Bellinger re-signing? A Sammy Sosa homecoming? Or what about $50 million from the Colorado Rockies just because it sounds cool?

Adding Neris could be the beginning of several moves for the Cubs as Spring Training approaches. After all, we’re only in the sixth or seventh inning of the offseason if my math is right.