Veteran Closer Craig Kimbrel Joins Astros: 9‑Time All‑Star Adds Experience to Houston Bullpen

An impactful bullpen addition has arrived in Houston as Craig Kimbrel, the legendary nine-time All-Star closer, signs a major league deal with the Astros. The move comes after the right-hander was released by the Texas Rangers earlier this week, bringing his roller-coaster 2025 season to a pivotal juncture.

Kimbrel, 37, has made appearances for eight other MLB teams in his 16-year career and now heads to his ninth. The Astros are adding him not just for name value—but for the experience, intensity, and postseason savvy he brings to a bullpen that’s been battling inconsistency and injuries, especially with closer Josh Hader currently on the injured list.

What Craig Kimbrel Brings to the Astros Bullpen

The Astros are well-aware of what Kimbrel offers: a career total of 440 saves, electric stuff, and the experience of high-pressure moments. Even though recent seasons have seen fluctuating performance, his 2023 All-Star selection with the Phillies is proof that he still has gas in the tank when utilized strategically.

Before this latest signing, Kimbrel’s 2025 journey included short stints with both the Braves and Rangers organizations. He pitched just one inning in the majors for Atlanta before being designated for assignment. He later signed a minor league deal with Texas, delivering a 3.86 ERA across 28 innings for their Triple-A affiliate before being released.

Now in Houston, the opportunity is clear: strengthen a bullpen that needs a proven late-inning arm during its playoff push. With the regular season winding down and postseason stakes rising, the Astros are betting on Kimbrel’s pedigree and veteran instincts to deliver when it matters most.

How This Signing Shapes the Astros’ 2025 Outlook

Kimbrel’s arrival does more than fill a bullpen spot—it reshapes the Astros’ late-inning dynamics. With Hader injured, Houston lacked a consistent ninth-inning option. Kimbrel could either close or serve as a high-leverage reliever, depending on the matchup and game situation.

The Astros have been in the mix for playoff contention all season. Adding a reliever with postseason experience, who’s pitched in World Series and All-Star Games, provides critical depth. It’s not just about innings—it’s about presence, confidence, and resilience in must-win scenarios.

His most recent MLB season with the Orioles in 2024 wasn’t his best—Kimbrel posted a 5.33 ERA across 57 games. However, he still struck out 73 batters in 52.1 innings, showcasing flashes of his signature dominance.

Craig Kimbrel’s Journey in 2025

• Braves (MLB): Called up for one game, pitched one inning, designated for assignment

• Rangers (Triple-A): 28 innings, 3.86 ERA before release

• Astros (MLB): Now signed to active major league roster

This latest opportunity could be a defining chapter in Kimbrel’s long career. If he finds consistency in Houston, the Astros could benefit from one of the most experienced closers of the modern era just in time for the stretch run.

Craig Kimbrel remains one of baseball’s most respected relievers. His signing with the Astros adds valuable experience, leadership, and potential late-inning stability to a team poised for another postseason run.

For your information:

Is Craig Kimbrel still in Major League Baseball?
Yes, Craig Kimbrel is now back in MLB after signing with the Houston Astros in August 2025.

What team did Craig Kimbrel play for before the Astros?
In 2025, Kimbrel spent time with the Braves and Rangers organizations before joining the Astros.

How many saves does Craig Kimbrel have in his MLB career?
Kimbrel has accumulated 440 career saves, placing him among the top closers in MLB history.

Why did the Astros sign Craig Kimbrel?
The Astros signed Kimbrel to add bullpen depth and experience, especially with Josh Hader injured.

Was Craig Kimbrel an All-Star recently?
Yes, Kimbrel was last named an All-Star in 2023 while playing for the Philadelphia Phillies.

How old is Craig Kimbrel in 2025?
Kimbrel is 37 years old and still competing at the highest level in professional baseball.