Astros Add Veteran Closer Craig Kimbrel to Bolster bullpen
Table of Contents
Baltimore – In a strategic move to reinforce their pitching staff, the Houston Astros have signed veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel to a major league contract. the 37-year-old arrived in Baltimore on Friday and is expected to contribute immediately to the team’s postseason push. This acquisition comes as the Astros navigate a critical juncture in the season, seeking to solidify their position as contenders.
Kimbrel’s recent Journey
kimbrel’s path to Houston has been marked by recent transitions. Last year, he recorded a 5.33 ERA in 22 appearances with the Baltimore Orioles before his release in September. He briefly rejoined the Atlanta Braves, the team where he launched his Major League Baseball career, but appeared in only one game before being designated for assignment.
A subsequent minor league deal with the Texas Rangers saw him pitching for their triple-A affiliate, the round Rock Express, before his release on Thursday. The Astros quickly claimed him, recognizing his potential value despite recent challenges.
Did You Know?
Craig Kimbrel is one of only six pitchers in MLB history to record 400 or more saves.
Minor league Performance and Career Accolades
During 42 appearances across both triple-A and double-A levels this year, kimbrel posted a 1-2 record with a 3.00 ERA. His extensive career includes nine All-Star selections and an extraordinary 440 saves, showcasing his consistent dominance as a closer throughout his 16-year career. According to research on pitcher longevity, relievers with Kimbrel’s experience often adapt and regain form with a change of scenery [[1]].
Astros’ Roster Adjustments
Alongside the addition of Kimbrel, the Astros reinstated right-hander lance McCullers Jr. from the injured list. However, the team also placed left-hander Bennett Sousa on the 15-day injured list due to left elbow inflammation, retroactive to Wednesday. Further roster moves included optioning right-hander Logan VanWey to triple-A Sugar Land, transferring left-hander Brandon Walter to the 60-day injured list, and sending right-hander Tayler Scott outright to Sugar Land.
Key Roster Moves – August 23, 2025
| Player | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Craig Kimbrel | signed | Major League Contract |
| Lance McCullers Jr. | Reinstated | from Injured List |
| Bennett Sousa | Injured List | left Elbow Inflammation (15-day) |
| Logan vanwey | Optioned | to Triple-A Sugar Land |
“Happy to have him,” Astros manager Joe Espada stated prior to Friday night’s game. “This guy has been one of the best for a very long time.”
pro Tip:
monitoring a reliever’s workload and pitch usage is crucial for maintaining effectiveness, especially for veterans like Kimbrel.
What impact will Kimbrel have on the Astros’ bullpen down the stretch? And how will McCullers Jr.’s return affect the team’s pitching rotation?
Craig Kimbrel’s career exemplifies the evolution of the modern closer. His early dominance with the Braves established a new standard for high-leverage relievers, and his subsequent success with the Padres, Red Sox, and Cubs demonstrated his adaptability. The role of the closer has become increasingly specialized, with teams prioritizing velocity, movement, and mental fortitude. The Astros’ acquisition of Kimbrel reflects this trend,as they seek to add a proven closer to their championship-caliber roster.
Frequently Asked Questions about Craig Kimbrel
- What is Craig Kimbrel’s career save total? Kimbrel has accumulated 440 saves throughout his Major League Baseball career.
- What teams has Craig Kimbrel played for? He has played for the Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, baltimore Orioles, Texas Rangers, and now the Houston Astros.
- What was Craig Kimbrel’s ERA with the Orioles in 2024? Kimbrel posted a 5.33 ERA in 22 appearances with the Orioles last season.
- How many All-Star appearances has Craig Kimbrel made? Kimbrel has been selected to the All-Star team nine times.
- What is the meaning of the Astros adding a veteran closer? Adding a proven closer like Kimbrel provides stability and experience to the Astros’ bullpen, crucial for postseason success.
we invite you to share your thoughts on the Astros’ latest acquisition! Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to subscribe to World Today News for the latest updates and insightful analysis.
