Hector Neris Landing Spots: 3 intriguing destinations for veteran reliever after Cubs release 

Hector Neris' free agency value last offseason was helped monumentally by his 2023 season, in which the reliever had one of the best seasons of his career. The veteran right-hander used that success to garner a one-year, $9 million deal with the Chicago Cubs ahead of the 2024 campaign.

Despite posting a 1.71 ERA in 71 games last year, the Dominican failed to replicate that success for the Cubs in 2024. He was subsequently released by Chicago on Tuesday after posting a 3.89 ERA in 46 games this year.

As teams around MLB gear up for a push into the postseason, a reliever like Hector Neris is bound to attract interest. Here's a closer look at some top potential landing spots for the newly minted free agent.

Top 3 potential landing spots for Hector Neris

#3. Kansas City Royals

Starting pitching has kept the playoff hopes alive for the Kansas City Royals. However, despite ranking third in MLB in rotation ERA, the club's bullpen earned runs figure is 4.31, ranking 25th out of 30 teams.

All season long, Kansas City has struggled to name a full-time closer. The closest thing they have is James McArthur, whose 4.71 ERA and 1.37 WHIP are hardly becoming of a top finisher. By acquiring Neris, the club can add depth, experience and another option to turn to if and when those late-stage postseason situations arise.

#2. Los Angeles Dodgers

Los Angeles Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes has made it clear that the team is pushing for the 2024 World Series. Although the club's bullpen has performed well this year, injuries to names like Blake Treinen and Brusdar Graterol have shown the relative fragility of their system.

Even with acquiring Michael Kopech from the Chicago White Sox, a need for further talent, and more importantly, experience, is present in LA.

#1. San Francisco Giants

On Aug. 10, the San Francisco Giants optioned closer Camilo Doval to Triple-A in a move that would have been inconceivable a year ago. The NL saves leader in 2023, Doval struggled to a 4.70 ERA in 46 games this season, hurling the backend of the Giants' bullpen into a state of uncertainty.

Although Ryan Walker has done a tremendous job of acting in a variety of different roles, he is still an MLB sophomore. By pushing for Hector Neris, the Giants could play Walker and Neris in tandem, even if it is only a temporary arrangement.