The Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros have been heavily involved in the trade discussions. While many have presumed it to be the Astros’ asking Ryan Pressly about a potential trade to the Cubs, the name of his dog has suddenly created a buzz among the fans. On January 25, MLB insider Jon Heyman, talked about Pressly having a no-trade clause, as he never felt like leaving the Astros. However, there may be a change in thoughts for him right now.

Ryan Pressly, 36, was signed by the Houston Astros in 2018, and he gradually transitioned into a closer by 2020. He has been an All-Star in 2019 and 2021, and he converted his first 14 save chances in the playoffs and saved 111 games for Houston. Last year, Pressly posted a 3.49 ERA, 1.34 WHIP with 114 ERA+, and with one of the best spin rates in MLB, he has been a major contributor for the Astros.

Now with a lot of teams reportedly wanting Pressly’s services, the Astros have desired his approval to a trade with the Chicago Cubs, making them the top contender right now. Jon Heyman said on X, “The ball is now in Ryan Pressly’s court. The Astros have asked the relief star if he will approve a trade to the Cubs. Pressly has full no-trade and never wanted to leave Houston, where he and his family live year-round. But he may find the Cubs and a return to closing enticing.”

The journalist believes that the Astros have made the right call, allowing the pitcher to make a decision regarding his approval of the trade. However, he is hopeful that Pressly may find the deal interesting.

Meanwhile, a funny post has been doing the rounds that have left Cubs’ fans in a frenzy, and it is about the pitcher’s pet dog named Wrigley. Given that his dog’s name resembles the name of Wrigley Field, known for its unique traditions and charm, and is the home of the Chicago Cubs, fans are speculating about Pressly’s signing with the Cubs. However, it’s too early to say whether the deal is going to happen or not. 

Since the Astros have reached a tentative deal with the Cubs, Ryan Pressly will have to waive off his no-trade clause to the Cubs and another team. However, it doesn’t end here! His family has lived in Houston since the time he joined hands with the Astros. Additionally, in Texas, there are no state taxes, and so he isn’t looking to join any East or West coast team, which makes the deal with the Cubs likely considering that they are on the north side of Chicago. 

Fans share hilarious reactions over Pressly’s trade approval

While the Chicago Cubs are still waiting for Ryan Pressly’s approval, the name of his pet dog, Wrigley, has made headlines. The fans have assumed this dog’s name as a signal to his entry given that there is a ballpark with that similar name, which is also the home of the Cubs.

One user shared a post on his X handle, “Jon, is this something you can see the Mets pursuing?” asking Jon Heyman whether there is any probable chance for the New York Mets to get Pressly. The New York Mets were looking for a pitcher in their lineup, however, given that they have signed the right-handed pitcher, Adbert Alzolay, who is ready to join their bullpen in 2026.

In response to the Cubs Zone post on X sharing a picture of Ryan Pressly with his wife and dog Wrigley, a hopeful fan commented, “Why does it seem like everybody has some sort of random connection to the cubs?” This and Ben Johnson have just secretly been huge Cubs fans.” As per his response, it looks like every team has good connections with the Cubs, just like the Astros, who are waiting for Pressly’s approval. Another name is of Ben Johnson, who praised the Cubs as they helped him to join the Chicago Bears. 

Another X user wrote, “Then it’s a done deal with the Cubs. That’s the clincher!!” Based on his response, the fan speculates Pressly’s signing with the Cubs, as he views the social media account of Kat Pressly, where the name of the couple’s dog, Wrigley, was mentioned. Additionally, going by the picture posted by the Cubs Zone and presenting the dog’s name further makes him believe that the deal will happen soon.

However, a fan disagrees with the Astros’ call, considering it inappropriate, “For the Cubs, this seems like an expensive way to relive the Hector Neris experience. Ryan Pressly is in decline, and it costs both money and player capital. Cubs should sign a free agent and have Porter Hodge ready to close.” Based on this response, it’s true to some extent because Pressly hasn’t been in the best of form since his demotion. So it might not be the right thing to solely depend on their pitcher, Hector Neris; however, he suggested the Astros look for a free agent while getting Hodge ready to close.

So, basically, the Astros are looking for a revamp in their lineup, and that’s what is evident from a user’s comment, who said, “What are the Astros doing right now?  Starting to rebuild a bit?” Well, the Astros had a poor offseason, failing to get good marks in their 2024 report card. So, trying to move some of their superstars and sign new ones could be effective for making a good turnaround in the upcoming seasons.

Although there is no confirmation about Ryan Pressly leaving the Astros, do you think that would be the right call for the Astros or the Cubs would be happy to get him on board? Let us know in the comment section below.