US EditionAstros Reportedly Sign Closer with 5th Most Saves in MLB History
Craig Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star with declining recent performance, joins the Astros to address bullpen struggles after Josh Hader's injury sidelined him for the season.
- ESPN's Jeff Passan reported Thursday that the Houston Astros signed veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel to reinforce their bullpen during the playoff push after he opted out of a Rangers minor-league deal.
- After losing All‑Star closer Josh Hader to injury, the Houston Astros face an urgent bullpen need as Hader's left shoulder capsule sprain sidelines him for the season, prompting stopgap signings.
- A veteran of many clubs, Kimbrel brings 440 career saves but has seen his fastball dip to 91.6 mph and posted a 3.86 ERA with 28 strikeouts in 21 Triple‑A innings recently.
- If completed before September 1, the signing makes Kimbrel postseason-eligible as the Astros protect their 1.5-game AL West lead, adding bullpen depth but requiring two roster spots.
- Since July 1, the Astros bullpen's ERA rose over a run, ranking worse than only Rockies, Blue Jays, and Nationals, while Kimbrel's experience and minor-league strikeouts offer uncertain depth.
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