By Brian McTaggart

The Astros welcomed a familiar face back to the organization on Sunday, announcing they had reached a Minor League deal with right-handed pitcher Jose Veras, who spent the first half of last season with the club.

Veras will first report to the Astros complex in Kissimmee, Fla., on Monday and then to Triple-A Oklahoma City. He was released by the Cubs last week after signing a one-year, $4-million deal in December. The Astros had made offer in the winter to try to re-sign him.

Veras was projected to be the Cubs closer, but he lost the closer’s job to Hector Rondon after compiling an 8.10 ERA in 12 games. After Veras, 33, was designated for assignment earlier this month, the Cubs had 10 days to trade him or release him.

Veras, 33, traded last midseason to Detroit after appearing in 42 games for the Astros and posted a 2.94 ERA with 19 saves in 43 innings. He was a strong presence in the Astros’ young clubhouse, and the team struggled to close out games after he was dealt. <p>