The Houston Astros have signed veteran closer Craig Kimbrel to a major league contract, aiming to bolster their bullpen for the postseason push. This move adds experienced depth to a relief corps that has been dealing with injuries and performance issues.
Craig Kimbrel is a 36-year-old right-handed relief pitcher with a distinguished 16-year MLB career, including nine All-Star selections and a World Series championship with the Boston Red Sox in 2018. He is known for his high strikeout rates and has accumulated 440 career saves, ranking fifth all-time.
The Astros and Kimbrel have agreed to a major league contract, meaning he will join the active roster immediately. The specific terms of the deal, such as salary and duration, have not been disclosed in the initial reports.
The agreement was reported on August 21, 2025, by multiple sources including Jeff Passan of ESPN. The signing comes as the Astros are in the midst of the 2025 MLB season, approaching the final stretch before the playoffs.
Kimbrel will be joining the Houston Astros, based in Houston, Texas. The team is currently competing in the American League West division and is in contention for a playoff spot.
The Astros’ bullpen has been struggling with injuries and a lack of depth, particularly among right-handed relievers. Kimbrel’s addition is intended to provide veteran experience and stability, especially in high-leverage situations. Despite a down year in 2024 with the Baltimore Orioles, where he posted a 5.33 ERA, the Astros are betting on his track record and potential for a rebound.
The deal was negotiated and finalized quickly, with Kimbrel recently being released from a minor league contract with the Texas Rangers. He had been pitching in Triple-A for both the Rangers and Atlanta Braves affiliates this season, maintaining a 3.00 ERA in 39 minor league innings, showing he still has stuff to contribute.
This signing could significantly improve the Astros’ bullpen by adding a proven closer who can handle late-inning duties. It addresses a key weakness and could enhance their chances in close games. For Kimbrel, it’s an opportunity to revive his career and contribute to a contender after recent struggles.
Kimbrel is expected to report to the Astros soon and could make his debut shortly. His role will likely be as a setup man or closer, depending on the health of other relievers like Josh Hader. The Astros will monitor his performance closely as they gear up for the playoffs, hoping he can return to his All-Star form.
Source: https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2025/08/astros-to-sign-craig-kimbrel.html