The Los Angeles Dodgers are evaluating options ahead of the MLB trade deadline to enhance their roster, with a particular focus on acquiring St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley. This move aims to reinforce their bullpen and sharpen their competitive edge as they pursue postseason success.
Despite boasting a talented lineup, the Dodgers recognize the value of adding reliable bullpen arms like Helsley to maintain their momentum and address potential gaps as the season unfolds.
Current Bullpen Situation and Trade Deadline Strategy
Although the Dodgers’ roster is strong, there remains opportunity to improve both the rotation and relief corps. With key injured players expected to return in August, the urgency to make trades is moderate compared to other teams desperately seeking reinforcements. Still, strategic additions like Helsley could give the Dodgers greater late-inning flexibility and stability.
Should Los Angeles secure Helsley, it could disrupt rival teams’ plans and signal their serious intent to extend their postseason run.
Ryan Helsley’s Value and Performance This Season
Ryan Helsley, a two-time National League All-Star, has delivered solid numbers this season, recording 19 saves and maintaining a 3.27 ERA. His role as a dependable right-handed closer complements the Dodgers’ existing bullpen options, such as left-handed reliever Tanner Scott.
With the Cardinals struggling to contend in the Wild Card race, the chances of Helsley being traded have increased, especially as negotiations on a contract extension appear unlikely. His availability presents an enticing opportunity for the Dodgers to upgrade their late-inning pitching.
The Los Angeles Dodgers don’t necessarily need to make a move at the MLB trade deadline, not with all the talent they’ll have coming off the injured list in August. However, it’s always wise to fortify the bullpen,
Matt Johnson, Sportsnaut analyst
Potential Benefits of a Move to Los Angeles for Helsley
For Helsley, joining the Dodgers could provide a pathway to postseason appearances and put him in position to negotiate a lucrative contract based on his performance in high-pressure games. The opportunity to contribute to a team with strong championship aspirations might be an appealing factor in his decision to embrace a mid-season change of scenery.
The Dodgers’ pursuit of Helsley underscores their mission to boost bullpen depth while making a bold statement to their competitors as the playoff race intensifies.
Trade Deadline Implications and Playoff Outlook
If Los Angeles successfully acquires a top-tier reliever like Ryan Helsley, it could significantly impact the balance of power within the National League. Their enhanced bullpen would strengthen their ability to close tight games during the postseason, potentially shifting the trajectory of their playoff campaign and that of their rivals.
As teams prepare for the final stretch of the season, the Dodgers’ targeted move highlights their proactive approach to keeping the roster competitive and adaptable in pursuit of another championship run.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How fast does Ryan Helsley throw?
A. He threw 18 pitches at speeds over 100 miles per hour, which was the ninth most in Major League Baseball. His highest speed was 101.5 mph, achieved twice on September 20 and April 16, which was his MLB debut. Only he and Jordan Hicks, who threw 206 pitches, reached 100 mph for the Cardinals. He threw 27% of his pitches at 98 mph or faster, totaling 156 out of 577 pitches.
Q. How fast can Ryan Helsley throw?
A. Quick Look at Pitch Repertoire By 2025, the player mostly uses a Fourseam Fastball at 99mph and a Slider at 89mph, occasionally adding a Curve at 80mph. He seldom uses a Cutter, which is 93mph.