The St. Louis Cardinals have surprised many this season by holding a 51-46 record at the All-Star break, sitting just 1 ½ games behind the final National League Wild Card spot. As the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB trade deadline approaches, the team must decide whether to strengthen their roster for a playoff run or shift toward trading key players to rebuild.
Uncertainty Over Team’s Direction as Deadline Nears
The Cardinals are navigating a difficult crossroads, uncertain whether to pursue a playoff push or to initiate a major sell-off. This indecision increases speculation that the front office might engage in transactions reflecting both strategies. Among potential trade candidates, closer Ryan Helsley stands out as the most valuable asset who could influence the team’s path going forward.
Ryan Helsley Emerges as Top Trade Option
Recently, Ryan Helsley has become a central figure in trade discussions surrounding the Cardinals. Analysts such as Matt Johnson view him as a prime candidate for movement, with rumors linking him to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Johnson emphasized,
“The St. Louis Cardinals will likely be receptive to moving Ryan Helsley in a contract year, especially since re-signing him is unlikely,”
—Matt Johnson, Analyst
“The 30-year-old would provide Dodgers manager Dave Roberts with another late-inning option and would allow for Los Angeles to use its bullpen even more in October.”
—Matt Johnson, Analyst
Helsley set a franchise record in 2024 with 49 saves and was named the National League Reliever of the Year after posting a remarkable 2.04 ERA. This season, he continues to perform well with a 3-1 record, a 3.27 ERA in 33 appearances, and 19 saves, solidifying his reputation as a top relief pitcher.
Trade Deadline Could Define Cardinals’ Future
Although the Cardinals chose to keep Helsley during the offseason, the approaching trade deadline offers a critical chance to leverage his value. Trading Helsley now could bring in promising young pitchers to strengthen their farm system for the future, especially considering he will become a free agent after this season and is unlikely to return to St. Louis.
With tensions rising and the deadline drawing near, the Cardinals’ decision will be closely monitored, as it may shape the team’s direction for years to come. Whether they commit to a playoff push or build toward the long term, the outcome will significantly impact the organization’s trajectory.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How fast does Ryan Helsley throw?
A. He pitched 18 times at speeds over 100 mph, ranking him ninth in Major League Baseball. His fastest was 101.5 mph on two occasions, September 20 and April 16 during his MLB debut. Along with Jordan Hicks, who threw 206 pitches, they were the only Cardinals to hit 100 mph or more. Out of his 577 pitches, 27% were at least 98 mph.
Q. How fast can Ryan Helsley throw?
A. In 2025, their main pitches are a Fourseam Fastball at 99 mph and a Slider at 89 mph. Occasionally, they use a Curve at 80 mph. They almost never throw a Cutter, which moves at 93 mph.