Astros Sign Veteran Reliever Craig Kimbrel Amid Bullpen Injury

The Houston Astros have signed veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel to a major-league contract, addressing the loss of their closer Josh Hader, who is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season due to a shoulder injury. Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star and one of MLB's all-time saves leaders, has struggled with consistency in recent years and appeared in only one major-league game this season before being released by the Atlanta Braves and then the Texas Rangers' Triple-A affiliate. Despite his diminished form, Kimbrel's experience is seen as a necessary addition to the Astros' bullpen, which has been underperforming lately amid a tight division race with the Seattle Mariners. The Astros' move reflects limited options following the trade deadline and highlights the challenge of maintaining their slim lead in the AL West. Mariners fans and analysts view the Astros' bullpen struggles and Kimbrel signing as an opportunity to capitalize and close the gap in the standings. Kimbrel is expected to join the Astros immediately, with his role in the bullpen yet to be fully defined.