Advertisement
The Houston Astros might be bringing back a familiar face as they gear up for the final stretch of the 2025 season. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the team is thinking about re-signing veteran relief pitcher Ryan Pressly, who was recently let go by the Chicago Cubs.
Although Houston didn’t make any big moves to add to its bullpen or rotation at the trade deadline, it did make headlines by trading for star shortstop Carlos Correa in an emotional reunion. Now, they could be preparing for another one.
Houston’s bullpen is already among the best in baseball. Josh Hader has been dominant, with a 2.17 ERA, 74 strikeouts, and 28 saves in just under 50 innings. Bryan Abreu is right there with him, posting an even lower 1.82 ERA and 76 strikeouts in almost the same number of innings. Despite this strength, the Astros could still look to add more depth, especially as other top teams, like the Padres, make aggressive moves to strengthen their relief staff ahead of October.
Pressly hasn’t had a strong year. With the Cubs, he’s struggled, pitching 41.1 innings with a 4.35 ERA and recording only five saves. His strikeout numbers are low, and his ERA+ of 88 is far below his usual standard. That’s a big drop from his time in Houston, where he was one of the most reliable arms in the bullpen. Across his seven seasons with the Astros, Pressly had a 151 ERA+ and a solid 2.78 ERA in 47 playoff games.
At 36, Pressly may be nearing the end of his career, but Houston knows what he’s capable of. Bringing him back now could give him the motivation and the environment he needs to bounce back. Even if he isn’t in top form, his experience in high-pressure situations could still be valuable during a postseason run.
It’s not official yet, but the Astros are seriously considering the move. If it happens, it would mark the second time this season the team has reconnected with one of its former stars.