Recently released Chicago Cubs pitcher returns to his former team

It didn't take long for one of the Chicago Cubs' recently released pitchers to find a new home.

On Tuesday, August 20, a shocking report emerged revealing that the Cubs were parting ways with their high-profile rookie Hector Neris when they suddenly designated him for another player and then immediately released him.

After signing him for $9 million with a club option that could have been converted to a player option if the minimum requirements were met, Chicago decided to let the former World Series winner and closer go for their team.

Neris now has the opportunity to pitch for a contender after Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston reported that the star right-hander is returning to his former team, the Houston Astros, as the perennial American League contender looks to win another division title.

The Cubs were able to sign the experienced reliever as a free agent after he had an incredible season with the Astros in 2023. In his 71 appearances and 68.1 innings pitched, he achieved an incredible ERA of 1.71 and an ERA+ of 246.

Chicago had hoped he would be able to provide that kind of stability to their bullpen after watching their relief team blow countless games late in the year last year, costing them a playoff spot.

Instead, Neris was shaky.

While his raw numbers looked good with an ERA+ seven points above league average, his lack of control was a real problem, as his K/BB ratio was the lowest of his career (1.77).

So the Cubs decided to move on.

Now, as a bullpen player for Houston, Neris has a chance to win another World Series title while Chicago sits at home and watches the playoffs.