The St. Louis Cardinals are facing a major decision regarding star closer Ryan Helsley as the season progresses. With his contract set to expire at the end of the year, the team may look to trade him now to get value before potentially losing him in free agency. According to Spotrac, Helsley is projected to command an $81 million deal on the open market, making a return to St. Louis unlikely.
However, the Cardinals are currently in the thick of a competitive National League wild-card race, and keeping a top-tier closer like Helsley could be vital to their postseason hopes. The dilemma is clear: trade him for future assets or keep him to boost their playoff push. According to The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, a recent poll of MLB executives suggests most believe the Cardinals will deal Helsley this season particularly if they falter in July.
Jim Bowden noted that the Cardinals remain in contention for both the NL Central and the wild card, making them look more like buyers than sellers at this point. However, with Ryan Helsley set to hit free agency after the season, St. Louis might decide it’s wiser to trade him at the deadline for long-term assets. One American League general manager familiar with the situation said the Cardinals’ performance in July will be the key factor in determining Helsley’s future.
Helsley, 30, has recorded a 3.41 ERA across 29 outings this season, notching 16 saves. While hitters are struggling mightily against his devastating slider—batting just .077—they’ve had success against his high-velocity four-seam fastball, hitting .429 off his 99 mph heater. If the Cardinals opt to move him, top contenders like the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Yankees could be prime destinations.
The Phillies have consistently been linked to Ryan Helsley in trade discussions. Despite being one of the top teams in the league, they’re in need of a closer following Jose Alvarado’s 80-game suspension, which also rules him out for the postseason. The Dodgers, while boasting a strong bullpen on paper, have been hit hard by injuries. Adding Helsley would further strengthen an already talented relief corps, and a trade involving outfielder James Outman going to St. Louis could make sense for both sides. As for the Yankees, they already have some strong bullpen arms but may still look to bolster the group. While they’re more likely to target a lower-cost option, they shouldn’t be ruled out as a potential suitor for Helsley.