Ryan Pressly, a two-time All-Star and key member of the Houston Astros’ bullpen during their 2022 World Series championship run, has officially retired from Major League Baseball after a 13-year career. The 37-year-old right-handed pitcher announced his retirement on Saturday, closing the book on a career marked by consistency and late-inning reliability.
Pressly began his MLB career with the Minnesota Twins, debuting in 2013 after being acquired in the Rule 5 Draft. He spent parts of six seasons with the Twins before being traded to the Houston Astros in July 2018. His arrival in Houston marked a turning point in his career, as he evolved into one of the league’s most dependable setup men and later took on closing duties.
Throughout his career, Pressly appeared in over 500 games and recorded 117 saves, most of which came during his time with the Astros. He was named to the All-Star team in 2019 and 2021, acknowledgments of his performance and role as one of baseball’s elite relievers during that span.
In the Astros’ 2022 championship season, Pressly was instrumental in their success, serving as the team’s closer and delivering crucial outs in the postseason. His ability to perform under pressure was a key factor in Houston’s bullpen strength, contributing significantly to their title run.
Pressly’s trademark curveball and precise command helped him accumulate a career ERA under 3.00 during several of his peak seasons. Known for his work ethic and quiet leadership, Pressly earned respect both on and off the mound from teammates and coaches across the league.
As he steps away from the game, Pressly leaves behind a legacy of resilience, adaptability, and success at the highest level of professional baseball. While he has not yet announced future plans, he concludes his playing career as one of the most effective relievers of the past decade.
