Ryan Pressly‘s Future: Cubs in the Mix, but Trade complications Loom
Table of Contents
- 1. Ryan Pressly’s Future: Cubs in the Mix, but Trade complications Loom
- 2. What factors, besides statistics and on-field performance, does Scott Davis believe teams should consider when evaluating Ryan Pressly as a potential acquisition?
- 3. ryan Pressly Trade Rumors: An Exclusive with Agent Scott Davis
- 4. Rickety pressly on the Move?
- 5. Tough Decision for Teams?
- 6. Cubs in the Lead?
- 7. Looking Ahead
The Houston Astros have been actively trying to trade veteran closer Ryan Pressly as the start of the offseason. However, with the free-agent reliever market recently heating up, interest in Pressly has surged among several teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays, and an unnamed club on the West Coast.
Though, a significant hurdle exists for any potential deal: Pressly holds full no-trade protection under his 10-and-5 rights. This means he has the power to veto any trade to a location he doesn’t want to go. Complicating matters further,
Pressly, a Texas native, has reportedly expressed a strong preference to remain in the state or the central part of the country, a sentiment underlined by his desire to avoid destinations too far east or west.
this preference presents a challenging situation for the Blue Jays and any West Coast teams involved. While the Arizona Diamondbacks have publicly stated their desire for a closer, the Oakland Athletics, San Francisco Giants, and Los Angeles Angels could also benefit from adding a reliable high-leverage arm, even if they aren’t specifically seeking a closer.
If Pressly remains focused on staying within his preferred geographic region, the Cubs could emerge as a frontrunner.“One swaying factor, speculatively speaking, could be that the Cubs would almost certainly use Pressly as their closer,” suggests Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
The cubs haven’t publicly confirmed their interest, and Pressly hasn’t made a final decision on any potential move. Notably, Pressly excelled in his previous role as Houston’s closer from 2020-2023, racking up 102 saves and maintaining a stellar 2.99 ERA with a remarkable 31.5% strikeout rate over 198.2 innings.
While Pressly’s 2024 season showed he can still be effective, his performance dipped slightly compared to his earlier career peaks. Despite this, his overall track record remains remarkable. It’s certainly worth noting that the Astros’ possible re-signing of infielder Alex Bregman could create a financial incentive for Houston to trade Pressly, thereby reducing their payroll burden and alleviating the sting of likely exceeding the luxury tax threshold for a second consecutive season.
According to RosterResource’s projections, the Astros are currently approximately $3 million over the $241 million luxury tax threshold. To this end, shedding Pressly’s $14 million salary could be a strategic move for the team.
What factors, besides statistics and on-field performance, does Scott Davis believe teams should consider when evaluating Ryan Pressly as a potential acquisition?
ryan Pressly Trade Rumors: An Exclusive with Agent Scott Davis
“Ryan is a top-tier closer, and there’s been a lot of buzz around his potential trade this off-season. We’re carefully evaluating all options that align with his needs and career aspirations. It’s crucial for him to find teh right situation where he can continue to excel on and off the field.”
— Scott Davis, Agent for Ryan Pressly
Rickety pressly on the Move?
The Houston Astros have publicly stated their intent to trade veteran closer Ryan Pressly, but reports indicate he holds full no-trade protection. As his agent, could you provide some insight into Ryan’s preferred destinations?
Ryan has been open about his desire to stay within a particular geographic region. He’s a Texan at heart and prefers remaining close to home or within the central part of the country. This preference naturally limits options on either coast.
Tough Decision for Teams?
That certainly narrows the field. Important contenders like the Toronto blue Jays and several West Coast teams could benefit from a closer like Ryan. Are these teams engaging in meaningful discussions, despite the geographical challenge?
We have been in contact with several teams, but it’s ultimately Ryan’s decision. His priority is finding a team that provides a winning environment and where he can thrive both personally and professionally, which aligns with his geographic preference.
Cubs in the Lead?
Reports suggest the Chicago Cubs are making a strong push for Pressly. According to some analysts, their commitment to using him as their closer might be a deciding factor. How do you respond to that speculation?
The Cubs have indeed expressed interest. The opportunity to be a cornerstone closer for a competitive team is certainly appealing. We’re taking the time to carefully assess all options and consider what’s best for Ryan’s long-term career.
Looking Ahead
What advice would you give to teams seeking to acquire a closer like Ryan? What qualities beyond stats and experience should they consider?
It’s not just about the numbers; character and leadership are equally critically important. ryan brings a wealth of experience, a relentless work ethic, and an unwavering commitment to winning. He’s also a valuable teammate and a positive force in the clubhouse. A team seeking a closer needs a complete package, and Ryan embodies that in every way.
