The Houston Astros just shook up the bullpen in a big way.
In a bold and aggressive move aimed at stabilizing their late-game pitching woes, the Astros have pulled off a blockbuster trade to acquire All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase from the Cleveland Guardians. The deal comes as Houston’s bullpen — particularly the performance of struggling closer Ryan Pressly — has faltered in high-leverage moments throughout the early part of the season.
Sources confirm the Astros are sending a package that includes top pitching prospect Spencer Arrighetti, versatile utilityman Mauricio Dubón, and a competitive balance draft pick to Cleveland in exchange for Clase and cash considerations.
“We felt it was time to make a serious move,” said Astros GM Dana Brown. “We have championship expectations, and Emmanuel brings exactly the kind of shutdown presence we need at the back end of games.”
Clase, 26, led the American League in saves last season and is known for his electric triple-digit cutter and elite ground-ball rate. He immediately becomes the favorite to take over closing duties for the Astros, who have blown several late-inning leads over the last month — sparking growing frustration from fans and inside the clubhouse.
Ryan Pressly, once one of the league’s most consistent closers, has seen his ERA balloon and his velocity dip, leading many to believe his days as the automatic ninth-inning option are numbered. Pressly is expected to slide into a setup role or potentially share high-leverage duties.
For the Guardians, the trade signals a slight shift toward the future, even while remaining competitive. Arrighetti gives them a young, MLB-ready arm with upside, and Dubón adds valuable versatility and postseason experience.
Astros fans are reacting with cautious optimism, hopeful that the bullpen woes of early 2025 can be corrected in time for another playoff push.
“If Clase can lock it down in the ninth, this team is dangerous again,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
With the AL West race heating up and Houston’s margin for error narrowing, this blockbuster deal could be just the spark they need.
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