Cubs Acquire Ryan Pressly in Trade with Astros

The veteran reliever waives no-trade clause to join Chicago, signaling a likely return to a closer role.

The Chicago Cubs traded minor league pitcher Juan Bello to the Houston Astros in exchange for Ryan Pressly and $5.5 million in cash considerations.
Pressly, 36, is expected to take on the closer role for the Cubs after serving as a setup man for Josh Hader in Houston last season.
The Astros moved Pressly to a setup role in 2024 after signing Hader to a five-year, $95 million deal, which reportedly strained Pressly's relationship with Astros GM Dana Brown.
The trade provides the Astros with $8.5 million in payroll flexibility, potentially aiding their efforts to re-sign free agent Alex Bregman or pursue other roster upgrades.
Pressly, a two-time All-Star, was a key figure in Houston's bullpen during their 2022 World Series win and has 112 career saves with a 3.27 ERA.