The Philadelphia Phillies are exploring all avenues to bolster their bullpen, and one name on their radar is St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley. Helsley has been a popular name in trade speculation for months, and now MLB insider and former GM Jim Bowden believes a deal between the two clubs could be in the works.
“Helsley owns a 3.30 ERA, a 3.79 FIP, and has recorded 17 saves in 22 chances this season,” Bowden noted. “He’s in the final year of his contract, and while the Cardinals remain in playoff contention, a trade is still possible.”
According to MLB Pipeline, Escobar and Burkholder rank as the Phillies’ No. 6 and No. 9 prospects, respectively. Giving up two top-10 prospects for a short-term bullpen rental might appear steep, but with elite relievers in high demand at the deadline, prices are bound to be inflated.
Bowden outlined a potential trade scenario:
Philadelphia Phillies receive: RHP Ryan Helsley
St. Louis Cardinals receive: INF Aroon Escobar, OF Griffin Burkholder
If the Phillies do pull the trigger, it would mark the second consecutive year they’ve had to acquire a proven closer at the deadline. Their previous investment in Jordan Romano hasn’t worked out, as he continues to struggle despite brief flashes of improvement.
If Philadelphia is serious about contending for a World Series title this season, this kind of aggressive move for Helsley may be exactly what they need.