Rumor: Houston Astros Sign Former Red Sox Star

A former Boston Red Sox star is joining the American League playoff hunt.

According to Jeff Passan, the Houston Astros are signing former Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel. He’ll join the Astros’ major league roster.

Kimbrel, 37, appeared in one game with the Atlanta Braves this season before being released. He didn’t allow a run, but his fastball averaged 91.6 mph, well below his prime. Last season, with the Baltimore Orioles, Kimbrel’s fastball averaged 93.9 mph.

After being released by the Braves, the former Red Sox closer signed a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers. His contract was never selected by Texas, and the team granted his release to sign with Houston.

Kimbrel is joining an Astros’ bullpen that ranks near the middle of the league in ERA. They recently lost Josh Hader to a shoulder injury, though, and could use experience in that group.

The future Hall of Fame closer spent three seasons with the Red Sox and was named an all-star in each of them. He recorded 108 saves and registered a 2.44 ERA. He recorded three saves against the Astros in the 2018 American League Championship Series.