Bryan Abreu has taken over as the closer, but with one of the game's best setup men being moved out of his usual role, the Astros felt like they needed to add another experience backend reliever, opting to sign Craig Kimbrel for the stretch run.

The Houston Astros have signed veteran right-handed reliever Craig Kimbrel to a major-league contract, ESPN reports. MLB.com adds that Kimbrel will be joining the club on Friday during their four-game road series against the Orioles .

Craig Kimbrel could see leverage opportunities soon with the Astros, who are without Josh Hader and Bennett Sousa due to injuries.