Signed to a four-year, $53 million contract out of Japan's NPB, Imanaga was thought of as a back-end starter, maybe a number three at best. Instead, he turned into the ace of the Cubs, going 15-3 and becoming their lone representative at the 2024 All-Star Game.

The Chicago Cubs acquired right-handed relief pitcher Ryan Pressly from the Houston Astros on Tuesday. Pressly, who served as the Astros' closer for three of the past four seasons, waived his no-trade clause to allow the move to go through.

The Chicago Cubs acquired right-hander Ryan Pressly and cash from the Houston Astros on Tuesday for minor league pitcher Juan Bello. Pressly likely slides into the closer's role with Chicago, which is looking to go back to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

The Chicago Cubs could turn to free agency to boost their bullpen after swinging a blockbuster trade for Ryan Pressly.