Is a veteran reliever the key to the still gummed-up market for free-agent infielders? That may be the case, peculiar as it sounds. Let us explain. The Chicago Cubs have reportedly agreed to acquire high-leverage bullpenner Ryan Pressly from the Houston Astros in exchange for right-hander Juan Bello.

Dana Brown spoke today on Ryan Pressly, Alex Bregman, Jose Altuve and the current Astros' roster. Read all about it on MLB Trade Rumors.

By helping the Astros unload the contract, the Tigers might have hurt their own chances to sign third baseman Alex Bregman, the top free-agent hitter still on the market. The Pressly trade has only fueled speculation that the Astros are positioning their payroll for a last-ditch effort to retain their fan-favorite star.

Reliever Ryan Pressly has agreed to waive his no-trade rights and accept a trade from the Houston Astros to the Chicago Cubs, a person with knowledge of the decision confirmed Sunday, in a move that could in turn increase the Astros’ chances of a reunion with free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman.

Houston general manger Dana Brown says discussions about possible reunion with free agent Alex Bregman have been mostly 'internal.'

Alex Bregman is one of the greatest players on the field and in the clubhouse of the Houston Astros’ golden era, but he is also expensive.

The Houston Astros might be one of the most important clubs to monitor as the offseason rolls along as they have been linked to two significant moves that could shape the open market.

Astros GM Dana Brown admitted his relationship with Ryan Pressly suffered over the last year before Houston traded him to the Cubs.

Alex Bregman entered the winter with roughly a half-dozen suitors in free agency, with no clear leader in the clubhouse for the two-time All-Star and two-time champion. Three months later, the Houston Astros' legend still doesn't have clarity on his MLB future.

Since winning the World Series in 2021, the Braves have struggled to get back to the top of the sport. They've reached the playoffs in the past three seasons but haven't made it past the division series.

The Houston Astros just shook up MLB with a blockbuster trade, sending veteran closer Ryan Pressly to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for minor league pitcher Juan Bello and cash considerations. This move isn't just about bolstering the Cubs' bullpen—it could be the key to the Astros’ potential reunion with Alex Bregman.