Yankees reportedly have heavy interest in this ex-Astros champion

The New York Yankees may be bringing in a guy who helped down them in the 2022 ALCS.

MLB insider Hector Gomez reported on Wednesday that the Yankees have “a lot” of interest in free agent reliever Hector Neris. Gomez adds that Neris is seeking a three-year deal worth $50M.

The righty Neris spent the last two seasons with the Houston Astros, including winning the World Series with them in 2022. He also had a lengthy stint on the East Coast with the Philadelphia Phillies prior to that.

The Yankees may not be interested in meeting the price tag for Neris, who is 34 and doesn’t close. Three years and $50M would be almost on par with what the Yankees just gave to All-Star Marcus Stroman in free agency. We also know that the Yankees have been very particular about where to spend this winter.

Still, the Yankees are thin on dynamic setup options other than Jonathan Loaisiga and Tommy Kahnle (both of whom missed extended time with injuries last year). 

If Neris, who also brings some fire on the mound, can come down on his ask a bit, there may be a match there.