Cubs Eye Astros’ Ryan Pressly in Bullpen Overhaul

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Cubs are actively pursuing Houston Astros closer Ryan Pressly as they aim to bolster their bullpen for the upcoming season. The Cubs, who recently missed out on signing free-agent reliever Robert Suarez, are exploring trade options to address their late-inning pitching needs.

Pressly, a two-time All-Star, is in the final year of his contract, earning $14 million in 2025. The 36-year-old right-hander has a no-trade clause, giving him control over his destination. A trade to Chicago would provide the Cubs with a proven closer, while the Astros would gain financial flexibility, dropping below the luxury tax threshold by $11 million.

“The Cubs are among the teams that have shown interest in acquiring Ryan Pressly, who is still being very actively shopped by the Astros,” reported a source familiar with the negotiations. Pressly, who transitioned to a setup role in 2024, recorded 25 holds and four saves with a 3.49 ERA over 56 2/3 innings.

Chicago’s pursuit of Pressly marks a shift in their bullpen strategy. The Cubs recently offered a four-year, $66 million deal to free-agent reliever Robert Suarez, which would have been the largest contract for a reliever in franchise history. While Suarez ultimately signed with the Dodgers, the Cubs’ willingness to spend signals a new approach under president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer.

Pressly’s addition would push the Cubs’ 2025 payroll to approximately $194 million, leaving them $29 million below the luxury tax threshold. The move could also free up resources for Houston to pursue an outfielder, with the Astros reportedly interested in free-agent slugger Joc Pederson.

Other free-agent relievers on the Cubs’ radar include Kenley Jansen and David Robertson. Jansen, 37, saved 27 games for the Red Sox last season, while Robertson, 40, posted a 3.00 ERA in 72 innings with the Rangers. Both pitchers would likely command eight-figure contracts, further highlighting Chicago’s willingness to invest in their bullpen.

The Cubs and Astros have a history of blockbuster deals, most notably the 2024 trade that sent outfielder Kyle Tucker to Chicago in exchange for infielder Nico Hoerner and top prospect Owen Caissie. While Pressly’s name reportedly came up in those discussions, no agreement was reached.

As the Cubs continue their search for bullpen help, Pressly remains a top target. His experience and track record could provide the stability Chicago needs to compete in a highly competitive National League Central division.