Astros Make Bold Move, Trade Veteran Star to Cubs—Fans Left Reeling!
In a move that’s sure to shake things up, the Houston Astros have traded veteran reliever Ryan Pressly to the Chicago Cubs. The deal also includes $5.5 million in exchange for promising 20-year-old pitcher Juan Bello.
Pressly, a two-time All-Star and key player in the Astros’ 2022 World Series victory, agreed to waive his no-trade clause to facilitate the deal. The 36-year-old spent three seasons as Houston’s closer, but after the signing of Josh Hader, Pressly was pushed into a setup role last season.
The trade raises plenty of questions. With Pressly’s contract winding down—he’s set to make $14 million in 2024 before becoming a free agent—is this purely a financial move? Or is it a precursor to something bigger, like locking down Alex Bregman for the long term?
For the Cubs, this trade is a game-changer. With their search for a reliable closer finally over, Pressly is expected to step into the role immediately, helping end their postseason drought.
This trade is the second major deal between the two teams this offseason, following Chicago’s acquisition of Kyle Tucker. The Astros are clearly making moves to stay in playoff contention, while the Cubs are hoping to break their playoff curse. What’s next in this offseason drama? Stay tuned!
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