The Houston Astros bullpen has struggled recently, especially with the shoulder capsule injury to All-Star closer Josh Hader. But it got a boost on Thursday night, as the Astros are signing veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel, who will join the big league team, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Report: Astros Sign Craig Kimbrel
Veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel is signing with the Houston Astros, a source tells ESPN. He’ll be joining their big league team.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 21, 2025
Where Kimbrel Has Been
The 15-year veteran most recently played for the Texas Rangers’ Triple-A team, the Round Rock Express, starting from June 12th. He last appeared on Aug. 20 and threw one scoreless inning. Kimbrel appeared in 24 games with Round Rock, where he put up a 3.86 ERA and 21 strikeouts in 21 innings.
The nine-time All-Star’s last stint in the major leagues was with the Atlanta Braves at the start of the season. Kimbrel played in the Braves’ minor league system until Atlanta called him up on June 6. He played the same day and pitched one scoreless inning with one hit, but was designated for assignment the next day.
The 37-year-old righty pitched 52 1/3 innings for the Baltimore Orioles last year and had a 7-5 record with a 5.33 ERA. Kimbrel went 23-for-29 in saves with 73 strikeouts and a 1.357 WHIP.
Kimbrel’s Career Retrospective
The Braves drafted Kimbrel in the third round back in 2008, and he went on to become one of the most accomplished relievers in MLB history with four Reliever of the Year awards. He also was the National League Rookie of the Year in 2011. Kimbrel has the fifth-most saves in major league history at 449 and was the closer for the 2018 World Series-winning Boston Red Sox.
The Astros hope the veteran can add to their depth and bring some experience to the group, while being an effective relief option. Houston’s pitching staff will aim to get the best out of Kimbrel, building on their history of turning pitchers around.
Main Photo Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
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