Former Houston Astros closer Ryan Pressly announces retirement, concluding his 13-year MLB career.

Ryan Pressly, a two-time All-Star and holder of 14 postseason saves placing him fifth all-time in MLB history, declared today the conclusion of his 13-year career in the majors.

Now 37, Pressly began his career with the Minnesota Twins, spending six seasons there before being traded to the Houston Astros mid-2018, a move that transformed his career path. He became a key bullpen figure for the Astros, helping the team reach the World Series in 2019, 2021, and 2022, and personally securing the final out in Game 6 of the 2022 World Series when Houston defeated Philadelphia for the championship.

Starting in 2020, Pressly transitioned into a closer role, amassing 111 saves for the Astros and earning All-Star selections in 2019 and 2021. Over 47 postseason appearances, he posted an ERA of just 2.78 and a WHIP of 1.08.

His championship-clinching save in Game 6 of the 2022 World Series capped off a flawless postseason performance, with a perfect 6-for-6 in save opportunities. In fact, before blowing a save in Game 2 of the 2024 ALDS against the Detroit Tigers—which marked his final appearance with the Astros—he had converted 14 consecutive postseason saves.

After the Astros signed free agent closer Josh Hader to a five-year, $95 million contract before the 2024 season, Pressly lost the closer role he had held for four years. Although he publicly accepted the change, his relationship with GM Dana Brown deteriorated. Ultimately, he agreed to waive his no-trade clause and was traded to the Chicago Cubs a year ago.

Pressly’s MLB career includes 667 appearances with a 3.33 ERA and 117 saves. He pitched in 342 games for the Astros, 281 for the Twins, and 44 for the Cubs (who released him mid-last season). Before being selected by the Twins in the Rule 5 Draft, he spent five years in the Boston Red Sox farm system. Between 2013 and 2018, he was a vital bullpen asset for the Twins, posting a 3.75 ERA across 317 innings (with only one save) until traded to the Astros to strengthen their relief corps.