The Houston Astros just shook up MLB with a blockbuster trade, sending veteran closer Ryan Pressly to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for minor league pitcher Juan Bello and cash considerations. This move isn't just about bolstering the Cubs' bullpen—it could be the key to the Astros’ potential reunion with Alex Bregman.

There are still plenty of free agents waiting to sign and trade candidates waiting to move, and as such there will be no shortage of activity between now and the start of camp. Speaking of all that, here now are Friday's hot stove rumors.

Alex Bregman remains on the free agent market despite having teams interested in him. The Houston Astros — the only team Bregman’s played for in his nine-year MLB career — remain in the mix for the infielder and are “trying to bring him back,” MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reported Monday.

On Payne & Pendergast, Seth and Sean discuss what’s behind the Astros trading Pressly to the Cubs and where the Astros are with Alex Bregman.

The Astros are eager to bring Alex Bregman back to Houston and have offered him a new contract. According to the renowned New York Post columnist Jon Heyman, the Texas team’s management is ready to strike a deal with the All-Star third baseman from the MLB for $156 million over six years.