Cubs Rumors: Trade with Houston Astros could answer another need

The Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros already came together on the biggest trade of the offseason, a deal that saw the Cubs acquire superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker. Tucker addressed the Cubs' need for an impact bat in their starting lineup, and in the weeks since the trade, the North Siders have been hoping to stabilize their pitching staff.

In particular, the Cubs are looking to strengthen the backend of their bullpen. In recent days, the Cubs just missed on signing Tanner Scott as the All-Star closer inked a four-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. While not heavily linked to Kirby Yates, the Cubs also saw the veteran reliever head to the Dodgers as well.

Adding to the bullpen is the priority for the Cubs before they begin Spring Training next month. Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney list several free agents who the Cubs are evaluating including David Robertson and Kenley Jansen.

Beyond adding a relief pitcher through free agency, The Athletic's Cubs insiders also mention that the Cubs could turn to the Astros once more for a trade. Astros' reliever Ryan Pressly is believed to be on the trade market and like Tucker, is one year away from free agency.

"Pressly, meanwhile, is entering the final year of his contract with the Houston Astros, which includes a no-trade clause and a $14 million salary. With Josh Hader employed as Houston’s closer — and the club still closely monitoring the $241 million luxury-tax threshold even after the Kyle Tucker trade — Pressly has drawn trade interest."

The Athletic

Prior to Josh Hader's arrival in Houston, Pressly was the Astros' closer. Last season, in. 59 appearances, Pressly posted a 3.49 ERA. Depending on the ask of the Astros, there may be more value for the Cubs in trading for Pressly as opposed to signing a veteran such as Robertston or Jansen with the hope father time does not catch up with them.