Chicago Cubs Eye Blockbuster Trade for Astros’ Ryan Pressly to Bolster Pitching Staff
The Chicago Cubs have been actively linked to various pitchers this offseason, with rumors pointing to both free agents and trade targets. As spring training approaches, the Cubs appear to have shifted their focus toward a high-profile bullpen upgrade.
Earlier in the offseason, following their acquisition of All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker, the Cubs were reportedly interested in Seattle Mariners ace Luis Castillo and free-agent pitcher Roki Sasaki. However, Sasaki opted to join the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Mariners set a steep price for Castillo, causing Chicago to explore alternative options.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Cubs are now among the teams aggressively pursuing a trade for Houston Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly. Despite strong interest from multiple clubs, Pressly reportedly prefers not to join teams located on either coast.
The Astros are exploring ways to shed payroll, potentially to free up resources for re-signing All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman. Moving Pressly, who is set to earn $14 million in the final year of his contract and holds a no-trade clause, could save Houston significant money while improving their chances of keeping Bregman.
Ryan Pressly’s 2023 Performance (via ESPN):
- ERA: 3.49
- WHIP: 1.34
- Hits Allowed: 58
- Strikeouts/Walks: 58-18
- Innings Pitched: 56.2
While USA Today insider Bob Nightengale reported that a deal between the Cubs and Astros was “on the verge” of being finalized, The Athletic‘s Astros beat writer Chandler Rome countered that no agreement is imminent. Pressly remains on the trade block, but as of Friday morning, he has not waived his no-trade clause.
If the Cubs succeed in acquiring Pressly, they would be adding a two-time All-Star reliever with a proven track record. From 2021 to 2024, Pressly posted a 3.07 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, and recorded 94 saves across 234.1 innings pitched. At age 36, he would provide much-needed stability to Chicago’s bullpen and serve as their closer—a position they aimed to address after missing out on Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, who both signed with the Dodgers.
As the trade market heats up, Cubs fans will be watching closely to see if their team can land this game-changing addition before Opening Day.
