Houston Astros, reliever Tony Sipp agree to three-year deal

The Houston Astros have agreed to a three-year contract with lefthanded reliever Tony Sipp.

The Houston Astros have agreed to a three-year contract with lefthanded reliever Tony Sipp, the team announced Friday.

The Associated Press reported earlier in the week that the deal is worth $18 million.

Sipp, 32, was a key late-inning reliever for the Astros last season, with a career-best 1.99 ERA in 60 appearances, striking out 62 batters in 54 1/3 innings. He did not allow a run in six postseason appearances, allowing just one hit. He has held opponents to a .184 average over the past two seasons with Houston.

Over a seven-year career with the Astros, Diamondbacks and Indians, Sipp holds a career 3.50 ERA.

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The move comes as the Astros attempt to shore up their bullpen, reportedly acquiring Phillies closer Ken Giles this week.

- Jeremy Woo