CHICAGO — The Cubs have designated Hector Neris for assignment and plan to release him, according to a report.
ESPN’s Jesse Rogers said Neris has already cleared waivers and is being released. The Cubs are calling up lanky reliever Jack Neely, who was recently acquired from the Yankees for Mark Leiter Jr.
Neris was Jed and company’s biggest swing for bullpen help last offseason after signing him to a $9 million one-year deal. Last season, Neris was an effective set-up man for the Astros with a 1.71 ERA in 68.1 innings.
His 2023 form never arrived on the North Side with an inflated walk rate and a decreased strikeout rate. With no true closer on the team, Neris had a 3.89 ERA with five blown saves.
The bullpen has been much better in the second half and the Cubs hope Neely can slot right in after six scoreless appearances in Iowa. The 6’8″ righty loves putting batters away with an effective slider, according to MLB Pipeline.
The Cubs return home Tuesday night against the Tigers with Javy Baez making his first return to Wrigley Field since being traded in 2021.