Iridium pincer complexes (e.g. (PCP)IrHn; PCP = 2,6-C₆H₃(PR₂)₂) are the most effective molecular catalysts known for the dehydrogenation of alkanes. In an effort to screen other pincer ligated transition metal complexes as potential catalysts, we have begun an investigation of the isoelectronic group 8 PNP series (PNP = 2,6-bis(dialkylphosphinomethyl)pyridine). Toward this end, two new catalyst precursors of the type (^tBuPNP)MCln (M = Fe, n = 2; M = Os, n = 3) have been synthesized. Reduction of (^tBuPNP)OsCl₃ with NaEt₃BH₄ yields the tetrahydride complex, (^tBuPNP)OsH₄; this is a purely classical (Os(IV)) tetrahydride, in contrast with iridium analogues (PCP)IrH₄, which show short H-H distances. (^tBuPNP)Fe(CO)₂, an unusually blue colored complex, has been synthesized by reaction of (^tBuPNP)FeCl₂ with either NEt₄BH₄ or Na(Hg) under CO. This complex has unusual bent Fe-C-O angles. The characterization of the new complexes will be discussed, including their electronic structures. DFT calculations will be presented which, in particular offer insight into the bent Fe-C-O angles of (^tBuPNP)Fe(CO)₂.