Cardinals Could Bolster Bullpen By Adding Ex-Astros High-Leverage Hurler

Could the St. Louis Cardinals acquire a proven high-leverage reliever coming off a stellar season?

Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak has been adamant in his quest to bolster the club's pitching staff after a disappointing last-place finish in the National League Central a season ago. 

Thus far, he's already shored up the rotation -- though question marks remain regarding how much of an improvement he actually made -- and appears to be focused on adding to the bullpen.

Mozeliak reportedly has interest in adding a high-leverage reliever to the back of the bullpen and would ideally like to add two. With Sonny Gray's back-loaded deal, St. Louis could look to invest in a veteran hurler who could make a notable impact on a short-term deal. 

With that criteria in mind, former Houston Astros right-hander Hector Neris appears to be a strong fit. 

Neris posted a 1.71 ERA (246 ERA+) with a 77-to-31 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .174 batting average against and 1.05 WHIP in 68 1/3 innings for the Astros last season.

The 34-year-old cannot be counted on to produce at that level moving forward but his career 3.24 ERA and 129 ERA+ over his 10-year career is plenty of evidence to suggest he could be a solid high-leverage option alongside Ryan Helsley, Giovanny Gallegos and JoJo Romero in the back of the bullpen. 

Making a small investment in Neris could prove to be extremely valuable as the season progresses. Every team needs bullpen help once the season commences, now is the time to acquire it.

Neris is a prime example of a low-risk, high-reward signing that St. Louis would be wise to make.