Reliever Jesse Crain Joining Astros
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Ron Vesely/MLB Photos via Getty Images(HOUSTON) — The Houston Astros agreed to a one-year deal with free-agent reliever Jesse Crain Tuesday.
The deal means the 32-year-old Crain is returning home. His family lives near Houston and Crain also went to college at the University of Houston.
“It’s exciting,” Crain said. “I don’t know what I’m getting myself into with family and friends and all that. We’re real excited to spend time at home. Having three young kids definitely played a huge decision in signing here.”
The right-handed Crain pitched 36.2 innings for the Chicago White Sox last season compiling a 2-3 record, a 0.74 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 11 walks and 46 strikeouts leading him to make his first All-Star team.
Crain was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays on July 29 but never pitched an inning for the team due to biceps tendonitis, which ended up requiring surgery. The hope is he will be ready for Opening Day.
Crain joins a bullpen that last season ranked last in the majors with a 4.92 ERA.
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