MLB Rumors: In a purported blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros, the Chicago Cubs will acquire an All-Star for $14 million.
The Chicago Cubs are reportedly acquiring a $14 million All-Star in a blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros The first blockbuster trade between the two teams represented a seismic shift in Houston's future strategy, as the Astros sent superstar right fielder Kyle Tucker to Chicago in exchange for three players, including third baseman Isaac Paredes. The acquisition of Paredes gave the impression that the Astros might also be out on signing third baseman Alex Bregman, but after Sunday's trade, that may no longer be the case. Let's put aside speculation about what might happen for a moment, though, because the Cubs currently seem to be getting a new closer.
The Cubs are reportedly nearing a deal to acquire two-time American League All-Star Ryan Pressly, a former Astros reliever. Jeff Passan of ESPN broke the news of the trade first.
We don't yet know the return. The Astros will send money to cover the deal, and Pressly, who owes $14 million in the last year of his current contract, will waive his no-trade clause to make the move possible.
In a short social media post, Pressly's wife Kat thanked Astros supporters for the couple's time in Houston, describing it as the "hardest decision" the family had ever had to make.
Pressly will be trying to prove that he is still one of the best closers in the game as he enters his 36th season. After Josh Hader was acquired, he lost his closer position in Houston in 2024, although he still recorded a 3.49 ERA and 3.10 FIP in 59 games.
The Cubs may be assisting Houston in re-signing Bregman, as they still seem to have an interest in him. But sometimes you just have to take action when you need a closer and there's a very good one available.
The Cubs might still attempt to sign another starting pitcher if they truly want an A-plus summer. They have, however, done a lot to increase their chances of winning the National League Central in 2025, especially with Pressly and Tucker in tow.
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