Cardinals Could Trade Ryan Helsley Amid $81 Million Free Agency Projection
The St. Louis Cardinals are facing a critical decision regarding star closer Ryan Helsley. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, the team may look to trade him before the deadline in order to receive value in return. Financial projections from Spotrac estimate Helsley could command around $81 million in free agency, making a re-signing by St. Louis unlikely.
Despite being in the thick of the National League wild-card race, the Cardinals may opt to deal Helsley depending on their performance in July. According to a recent survey of MLB executives conducted by The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, many believe St. Louis is likely to move Helsley if the team underperforms in the coming weeks.
“Helsley is eligible for free agency this offseason, and St. Louis could decide that trading him now for future assets makes more sense than keeping him,” Bowden wrote. One American League general manager added that the team’s performance in July will heavily influence the decision.
Helsley, 30, currently holds a 3.41 ERA over 29 appearances with 16 saves. While batters are struggling against his slider—hitting just .077—they have had success against his fastball, batting .429 against his 99 mph four-seamer.
Should the Cardinals trade Helsley, several contending teams could be potential destinations. The Philadelphia Phillies are a leading candidate due to their need for a closer following Jose Alvarado’s 80-game suspension. The Los Angeles Dodgers, despite a strong bullpen on paper, are dealing with injuries and could use another high-level arm like Helsley. The New York Yankees might also be in the mix, although they are more likely to pursue a less expensive option.
