Right-hander Dan Wheeler, one of the primary setup men in Houston’s bullpen, has signed a one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Astros without any negotiations. In 257 career outings, nine as a starter, Wheeler is 11-17 with a 3.82 ERA and 14 saves. He has pitched in parts of seven big league seasons for Tampa Bay (1999-2001), the New York Mets (2003-04), and the Astros (2004-06).
Dan Wheeler
Wheeler, who also played as closer at times in 2006 while Brad Lidge struggled in that role, finished last season with a 3-5 record and a 2.52 ERA, allowing 20 earned runs over 71 1/3 innings, spanning 75 appearances. He logged nine saves in 12 opportunities. The 29-year-old Wheeler held adversary to a .221 batting average, including just .184 after the All-Star break. He had a 1.11 ERA after the All-Star break, fifth-best among NL relievers.
I wish Dan all the good luck. May he be the hero of the Astros!