With Astros reloaded for contention, new opportunities have arisen for leadership & evolution
PRESENTED BY COORS LIGHT
01 February 2024
Shortly after the Astros signed Josh Hader to a 5-year $95 million contract, Hector Neris agreed to a much smaller deal with the Chicago Cubs.
Right-handed reliever Hector Neris and the Chicago Cubs are in agreement on a one-year, $9 million contract that includes an option for 2025, a source familiar with the deal tells ESPN.
The $9M team option converts to a player option at 60 games. Total max w incentives: $23.25M.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 27, 2024
Before the signing of Hader, Neris was rumored to be looking for a 3-year $50 million deal. Clearly that wasn't what the market was willing to pay Neris.
Which made us wonder, with the benefit of hindsight, would Jim Crane rather have signed Neris to the cheaper deal?
In our opinion, no. Part of the reason behind the Hader signing was adding more youth to the Astros bullpen. Not only for the short-term, but also as a tactic to prepare for life after Ryan Pressly, who will likely be gone after the 2025 season.
The Astros lost 4 relief pitchers this offseason
Considering how many bullpen arms won't be back for 2024, how much better is this year's 'pen after adding Hader?
Leader of the pack
Finally, with so many team leaders not returning for 2024, who will step up for the Astros and lead the team moving forward?
Be sure to watch the video above as we address all these questions and much more!
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Presented by Coors Light.
NBA insider reveals how Rockets just delivered an offseason masterclass
Jul 1, 2025, 4:23 pm
In today’s episode of First Take, Brian Windhorst, Tim Bontemps, and David Dennis Jr. break down what’s shaping up to be one of the most aggressive offseasons in the NBA, and it’s happening in Houston.
The Rockets are sending a clear message: they’re not here to wait around. With bold moves already on the board and the possibility of more to come, this front office is going all-in. But it’s not just about what they’ve done, it’s what it means.
According to Bontemps, even if the Rockets don’t make another single move, they’re already in the championship conversation.
From roster upgrades to long-term vision, the Rockets’ approach has the league watching closely. This episode unpacks the implications and why Houston’s time might be now.
Don't miss the video below to watch the full conversation!
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