Cards Lose Free Agent Reliever Pat Neshek to Astros

The Houston Astros reshaped their bullpen Wednesday by signing former St. Louis Cardinal reliever Pat Neshek. Neshek agreed to sign with the Astros for $12.5 million over two years, with an option for 2017. Neshek will be reunited with Astros manager A.J. Hinch, who was in San Diego's front office in 2011 when Neshek pitched there. Neshek said he had eight offers of two-year deals and was about to sign with the Pirates when the Astros came through with a better offer.

The Neshek deal was announced at the Baseball Owner's Winter Meeting in San Diego.