With Spring Training just a few weeks away, the Houston Astros are reportedly shopping another key member of their 2022 World Series team, closer Ryan Pressly. News broke overnight that the Chicago Cubs were “on the verge” of acquiring another Astros All-Star, closer turned set-up man Ryan Pressly. The 36-year-old is entering the final year of a three-year, $42 million contract that includes a full no-trade clause. While he has yet to waive his no-trade clause, MLB insider Jon Heyman reports that Pressly has “told the Astros he’s disinclined to go East or West.”
Cubs Positioned as Strong Contenders for Astros’ Top Closer
Astros relief star Ryan Pressly, pursued seriously by 3 teams, has full no-trade and told the Astros he’s disinclined to go East or West. So that’s a “no” for Jays, 1 of the teams. He hasn’t committed either way yet on Cubs, who’re trying @BNightengale 1st on Cubs interest
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 24, 2025
Chicago is just one of three teams who are said to be pursuing the veteran reliever this offseason. According to The Athletic, the Blue Jays and an unknown mystery team from the West Coast have also expressed interest. Based on Heyman’s reporting, it seems like Chicago, who is still without a reliable closer, would be an ideal fit.
Cubs Among Three Teams Pursuing Astros Reliever Ryan Pressly
Drafted in 2007, Pressly spent five seasons in the Red Sox system before he was taken by the Twins in the 2012 Rule 5 Draft. He was a big part of the Twins bullpen primarily used as a middle reliever and setup man from 2013-18. Pressly posted a 3.75 ERA with one save in 317 innings over his six seasons in Minnesota. He was acquired by Houston at the deadline in 2018. An All-Star in 2019 and 2021, he took over as the Astros closer in 2020, saving 116 games for Houston. Pressly converted his first 14 playoff save opportunities prior to last year, including Game 6 of the 2022 World Series.
The Dallas native moved into a setup role last year after Houston signed closer Josh Hader, posting a 3.49 ERA with four saves over 56 ⅔ innings. He had a 7.4% walk rate with 25 holds while his curveball spin rate remained in the top 1%. Astros manager Joe Espada acknowledged it was a “tough” adjustment for Pressly to make going from closer to set-up man.
Pressly saved at least 26 games in each of his three full seasons as Houston’s closer. He would likely assume a closing role with any new team. With the Cubs prioritizing acquiring an established reliever, sending another prospect package to the Astros could be a real possibility. Should Pressly waive his no-trade clause, he would instantly give Chicago a proven ninth inning option. Houston would likely have to cover part of his $14 million salary.
