The St. Louis Cardinals are confronting a difficult stretch in their MLB season as recent performances have prompted a reassessment of their trade strategy. After a strong May that boosted them to eight games above .500, the Cardinals have slipped to just three games over .500 and currently hold fourth place in the National League Central, trailing the division leaders by seven games. This downturn increases the possibility that the team will take a seller’s stance as the trade deadline approaches, impacting the Cardinals’ roster decisions.
Ryan Helsley’s Recent Performance Issues
Ryan Helsley, once a reliable pillar of the Cardinals’ bullpen, has recently struggled, significantly affecting the team’s relief pitching strength. In June alone, Helsley has blown three save opportunities and allowed five saves this season, surpassing his total saves for all of 2024. Although his win-loss record remains 3-0, his ERA has climbed to 3.96, highlighting ongoing challenges with maintaining consistency. These difficulties have led the Cardinals’ management to rethink Helsley’s role and evaluate his trade value with greater scrutiny.
Phil Maton Emerges as a Potential Trade Candidate
While Helsley has faltered, Phil Maton has become a promising alternative for the Cardinals. The right-handed reliever, signed last offseason for one year at $2 million, has made 28 appearances this season, posting a strong 2.05 ERA despite a 0-2 record. Maton has recorded two saves and boasts a high strikeout rate, averaging 11.6 strikeouts per nine innings, which adds to his appeal for teams seeking bullpen reinforcements. His effectiveness on the mound combined with his affordable contract makes him a prime asset that could attract considerable interest at the trade deadline.
Given the current market trends, where rental relief pitchers have yielded valuable returns, the Cardinals could leverage Maton’s performance to secure quality prospects or players in return, if they choose to trade him.
Trade Deadline Decisions and the Cardinals’ Outlook
As the midseason trade window nears, the Cardinals face important decisions about whether to sell key bullpen pieces like Maton or hold onto their assets while attempting to remain competitive. Such moves would indicate a longer-term strategy focused on rebuilding, especially with an eye toward the 2026 season and beyond. The organization is walking a fine line between pursuing short-term success and planning for future competitiveness.
How the Cardinals manage these challenges will have lasting implications for the team’s direction and its standing within Major League Baseball. Their ability to assess and act decisively during this trade period will play a critical role as they seek to regain prominence in the league.
“Once viewed as a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ bullpen, Ryan Helsley has encountered significant challenges this month.” —Unknown
“Maton’s affordability and effective performance make him an enticing option for teams looking to bolster their bullpens.” —Unknown