Pitcher has made it clear regarding his future with the St. Louis Cardinals. However, with the MLB trade deadline approaching and the team continuing to drift out of the playoff picture, that seems increasingly unlikely.
Though he has often been viewed as a trade candidate, this time the possibility feels more imminent. The Cardinals’ closer acknowledged it himself:
“This is probably the most likely it’s ever been that I get traded,” he said.
St. Louis was slightly above .500 and trailed the National League Central leaders by 9.5 games. Following a tough 1–5 road trip — including being swept by the Diamondbacks and shut out by the struggling Rockies — the team appears headed toward a mild rebuild. President of baseball operations John Mozeliak hasn’t committed to a clear direction, but recent struggles may force his hand. Should the Cardinals choose to sell, it would be just the second time in nearly two decades under Mozeliak’s leadership.
Helsley, set to hit free agency soon, is reportedly drawing interest from at least five teams. Although his fastball has been less effective — hitters are batting .415 with a .538 slugging percentage against it — his top-tier velocity and closing experience still appeal to contenders in need of bullpen reinforcements for a postseason run.
“I’d say there’s a 90 percent chance I get traded, 10 percent I stay,” Helsley admitted.
Despite some ups and downs this season, Helsley remains one of the most dynamic relievers in the majors. With the trade deadline approaching, interest in reliable late-inning arms is always high, and several teams have reached out to St. Louis. Many rival executives were surprised the Cardinals didn’t move him last offseason. While his value may have dipped slightly, it’s still substantial.
From Helsley’s point of view, the Cardinals’ front office faces a crucial decision.
“Do you go all-in on a two- or three-year rebuild? Or treat this season as a one-year reset?” he said. “But I want to stay here. I want to win here, with the Cardinals.”
Whether he’ll get that opportunity remains to be seen.