Months later, Bregman remains unsigned, and a resolution with his free agency does not appear any closer. Among the teams that have been linked to Bregman in reports include the Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers. But the reality is that none of the teams listed are close to signing the All-Star infielder.

By helping the Astros unload the contract, the Tigers might have hurt their own chances to sign third baseman Alex Bregman, the top free-agent hitter still on the market. The Pressly trade has only fueled speculation that the Astros are positioning their payroll for a last-ditch effort to retain their fan-favorite star.

Astros trade Ryan Pressly to Cubs, clearing the way for a potential Alex Bregman reunion as they look to extend his contract.