The Chicago Cubs acquired right-handed relief pitcher Ryan Pressly from the Houston Astros on Tuesday.
Pressly, who served as the Astros’ closer for three of the past four seasons, waived his no-trade clause to allow the move to go through. The Cubs also acquired cash considerations in exchange for minor league right-hander Juan Bello to complete the deal.
Per USA Today, The Astros will cover $5.5 million of Pressly’s $14 million salary for the upcoming season, the final year of his contract.
The Cubs designated right-hander Matt Festa for assignment to clear a spot on the 40-man roster.
By dealing Pressly now, Houston created some room to re-sign two-time All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman, according to USA Today.
Pressly, 36, racked up 90 saves from 2021 through 2023 and helped the Astros win the 2022 World Series as their closer. Then the club signed Josh Hader to a long-term deal and made him their closer in 2024.
Pressly likely will fill that role in Chicago. In 623 relief appearances for the Minnesota Twins (2013-18) and Astros (2018-24), Pressly amassed a 35-36 record and 112 saves while pitching to a 3.27 ERA. He made 59 appearances in 2024 and had a 2-3 record, four saves and a 3.49 ERA.
The Cubs made their second trade of the offseason with the Astros. Chicago previously acquired home run-hitting outfielder Kyle Tucker.
Bello, 20, spent last season with the Cubs’ Class-A affiliate in Myrtle Beach, posting a 4-5 record an a 3.21 ERA in 22 starts.