Chicago Cubs Acquire Ryan Pressly from Houston Astros
Right-Hander Agrees to Waive No-Trade Clause
The Chicago Cubs are finalizing a trade for right-hander Ryan Pressly, adding the veteran reliever to the back end of their bullpen in their second major offseason deal with the Houston Astros. According to a person familiar with the situation, Pressly has agreed to waive his no-trade clause, pending a review of medical records.
Background on the Trade
Pressly, a 36-year-old Dallas native, has spent six-plus seasons with the Astros, serving as a key performer in their bullpen. He had a 3.49 ERA in 59 appearances last year while working as a setup man for Josh Hader. Pressly had the right to block the deal due to his 12 years in the majors and six-plus seasons with the Astros.
Implications for the Cubs
The Cubs have been searching for bullpen help since finishing second in the NL Central in 2024. They were reportedly in the mix for Tanner Scott before he joined the Los Angeles Dodgers. With Pressly’s arrival, right-hander Porter Hodge is likely to slide into a setup role.
Impact on the Astros
Houston could use the money saved in the trade to upgrade its outfield or make a renewed push for a reunion with free agent third baseman Alex Bregman. With Pressly on his way out, Bryan Abreu and Tayler Scott each could take on a more prominent role in front of Hader in the Astros’ bullpen.
About Ryan Pressly
A two-time All-Star, Pressly has a 35-36 record with a 3.27 ERA and 112 saves in 623 major league games. He has also accumulated 693 strikeouts and 190 walks in 650 innings. Pressly rose to prominence with the Astros, becoming one of baseball’s best relievers. He had a streak of 40 consecutive games without allowing a run from August 15, 2018, to May 23, 2019.
Conclusion
The acquisition of Ryan Pressly is a significant move for the Chicago Cubs, adding depth and experience to their bullpen. As the team looks to build on its second-place finish in the NL Central, Pressly’s arrival should provide a boost.
FAQs
* What is the significance of Ryan Pressly’s no-trade clause?
+ Pressly’s no-trade clause gave him the right to block the trade due to his 12 years in the majors and six-plus seasons with the Astros.
* How will Pressly fit into the Cubs’ bullpen?
+ Pressly is likely to slot into the back end of the Cubs’ bullpen, providing depth and experience.
* What are the implications for the Astros?
+ Houston could use the money saved in the trade to upgrade its outfield or make a renewed push for a reunion with free agent third baseman Alex Bregman.
