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Royals Sign Hector Neris to Minor-League Deal With Spring Invite

Kansas City views the former Astros World Series contributor as low-risk depth for a strong bullpen following his down 2025.

Overview

  • The agreement is a minor-league contract with a non-roster invitation to MLB camp, first reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
  • Neris, 36, split last season among the Braves, Angels and Astros, posting a 6.75 ERA over 26 2/3 innings in 35 appearances with a 28.2% strikeout rate.
  • He previously excelled with Houston, allowing one earned run in eight games during the 2022 title run and recording a 1.71 ERA across 71 outings in 2023.
  • Recent struggles have been tied to diminished velocity and command, as his fastball averaged 92.4 mph and opponents hit .366 off the pitch with four homers.
  • He will compete for a limited bullpen spot on a team that ranked fourth in the AL with a 3.63 ERA in relief last season, with roster dynamics including options for Alex Lange and Daniel Lynch IV and few other non-roster additions such as Jose Cuas.