ATLANTA, GA – In a move aimed at reinforcing a bullpen that showed cracks in high-leverage moments last season, the Atlanta Braves have officially signed veteran right-hander Hector Neris to a one-year, $7.5 million contract with a mutual option for 2026, sources close to the team confirmed Wednesday morning.
The 35-year-old reliever, who spent the past two seasons with the Houston Astros, brings with him a decade of big-league experience, a fierce splitter, and a reputation as a relentless competitor. The Braves believe Neris will provide a steady hand in late innings, especially as they aim to push deeper into the postseason.
A Reliable Workhorse in the Pen
Neris is coming off a solid 2024 campaign, during which he posted a 3.01 ERA across 69 innings while racking up 78 strikeouts. He also held opposing batters to a .205 average and was used regularly in 7th and 8th inning situations — roles the Braves hope to mirror.
Manager Brian Snitker praised the acquisition, saying,
“Hector’s a bulldog. He’s been in pressure spots, he’s not afraid of any moment, and he knows how to get out of jams. That’s exactly what we were looking for.”
With Neris now in the mix, Atlanta’s bullpen boasts one of the deepest relief corps in the National League, joining A.J. Minter, Raisel Iglesias, Joe Jiménez, and young flamethrower Daysbel Hernández. The addition creates flexibility and gives Snitker more options to mix and match depending on matchups and rest days.
From Houston to Atlanta: Neris Seeks Another Ring
Neris, who helped the Astros secure a World Series title in 2022, said the chance to return to the postseason with a contending team was a key reason for choosing Atlanta.
“I had offers from other teams, but the Braves? That’s a winning culture,” Neris told reporters. “They play with heart. They play to win. And I want another ring.”
Neris also highlighted the team’s chemistry and clubhouse culture as big factors.
“It’s not just talent here — it’s brotherhood. I’m excited to be part of it.”
Known for his energetic demeanor on the mound, Neris has long been a fan favorite wherever he’s pitched, drawing cheers for his fist-pumping reactions after big strikeouts and his intensity under pressure. Braves fans can expect more of the same — and perhaps a new rally chant forming at Truist Park.
Why the Braves Needed This Move
While Atlanta led the majors in runs scored last year and had one of the most complete rotations in baseball, their bullpen stumbled at times — particularly in close games down the stretch. Injuries and overuse exposed a lack of depth, with key relievers forced into extended roles.
General Manager Alex Forrester emphasized that lesson during his offseason interviews, vowing to strengthen every area of the roster.
“It doesn’t matter how many runs you score if you can’t hold a lead in October,” Forrester said. “We saw that. Neris is part of fixing it.”
This signing also gives the Braves insurance in case of injury to closers or setup men. With Neris’s experience in every bullpen role — from middle innings to closer — Atlanta adds both versatility and leadership.
Locker Room Buzz: What the Players Say
Teammates welcomed the news with excitement, including closer Raisel Iglesias, who played with Neris briefly in international competition.
“He’s fire, man,” Iglesias said with a grin. “He brings energy, and he can pitch anywhere. That’s what we need.”
Ronald Acuña Jr. posted on Instagram shortly after the news broke:
“Let’s gooo 
Welcome to Atlanta, hermano!”
Even former teammates from Houston chimed in on social media to wish Neris luck, with Astros catcher Martín Maldonado tweeting:
“Braves got a real one. He’ll give you everything he’s got.”
Neris’s Role: Not Just a Setup Man
Though Raisel Iglesias remains Atlanta’s primary closer, insiders say Neris could be used in “hybrid high-leverage” spots — particularly against right-handed heavy lineups or in the 8th inning when games are tight.
Pitching coach Rick Kranitz elaborated,
“We’re not putting anyone in a box. Neris gives us matchup advantages. Some nights he might pitch the 7th, others the 9th. The point is: we trust him with the game on the line.”
Kranitz also emphasized Neris’s durability and willingness to pitch on back-to-back days as crucial in the 162-game grind.
A Fanbase Rejuvenated
For Braves fans, the Neris signing feels like a smart, savvy addition to a team already viewed as a World Series contender. It’s not a splashy headline move — but it’s exactly the kind of transaction that wins playoff games.
One fan tweeted:
“No drama. Just a solid vet who can throw strikes and get K’s. That’s the kind of move that makes champions. Let’s go Braves.”
Another wrote:
“Braves bullpen in October: Neris. Iglesias. Minter. Just hand us the trophy now.”
Looking Ahead: The Road to October
With spring training just weeks away, Neris is expected to report to North Port, Florida, and begin working with his new teammates immediately. Braves coaches hope to integrate him quickly into the bullpen rotation and test out a few new pitch sequences they believe could add even more deception to his already elite splitter.
Meanwhile, fans are already imagining tight playoff games where Neris steps in with two men on, two outs, and the game on the line. And in those moments — just like he’s done in Houston and Philly before — Neris will look to do what he does best:
Shut the door.
