Mon Jan 27 03:40:00 IST 2025: **Astros Trade All-Star Reliever Ryan Pressly to Cubs**

**Houston, TX – January 26, 2025** – The Houston Astros have traded veteran reliever Ryan Pressly to the Chicago Cubs, ending days of speculation. The deal, confirmed by multiple sources including The Athletic and ESPN, includes Pressly waiving his no-trade clause in exchange for a new no-trade clause and an assignment bonus to offset relocation costs. The Astros will also send the Cubs a portion of Pressly’s $14 million 2025 salary. In return, Houston will receive at least one prospect from Chicago. The trade is pending final medical reviews.

Pressly, 36, had become a trade candidate due to the Astros’ limited payroll space. His contract, initially a two-year, $30 million extension, vested for a third year and an additional $14 million after he exceeded the required appearance threshold in 2023 and 2024. While valued by Houston, his salary made him a potential cost-cutting move. This trade follows a similar deal between the Astros and Cubs involving outfielder Kyle Tucker. The Astros have already used some of the savings from these trades to sign free agent Christian Walker to a lucrative three-year contract.

While the Cubs were initially rumored to be on the verge of securing Pressly, there was late interest from other teams, including the Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays. Ultimately, Pressly chose Chicago as his next destination. The acquisition of Pressly further strengthens the Cubs’ bullpen and signals their intent to contend for a playoff spot in the upcoming season. The specific prospect(s) sent to Houston in the trade are yet to be announced.

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