As the July 31 trade deadline nears, the St. Louis Cardinals are evaluating their roster with considerable urgency. Recent struggles have placed the team at a crossroads, prompting speculation about possible trades, including the potential movement of key reliever Ryan Helsley. The Ryan Helsley Dodgers trade deadline discussions have intensified as the Los Angeles Dodgers seek reinforcement in their bullpen.
Cardinals’ Post-All-Star Break Challenges Increase Trade Speculation
Since the All-Star break, the Cardinals have experienced difficulties maintaining a competitive position in the standings. These struggles have led to growing chatter about a possible “slight sale” involving valuable players. Helsley’s name, in particular, has surfaced frequently amid these rumors as the Cardinals consider balancing their present competitiveness with strategic roster adjustments.
Dodgers Struggle to Maintain Bullpen Stability
The Dodgers have been grappling with bullpen instability, especially after Tanner Scott left a game recently due to a forearm injury. Alongside Scott’s setback, the inconsistent performances of Kirby Yates and ongoing uncertainty over the timing of Blake Treinen’s recovery from his own forearm issues have left the Dodgers searching for reliable late-inning options. Treinen has been out since mid-April, further complicating the Dodgers’ relief situation.
Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman, known for his careful approach to trade deadline moves, may be pressured to act given the team’s urgent bullpen needs. As a team considered among the strongest contenders this season, the Dodgers appear motivated to strengthen their relief corps before the deadline.
Cardinals Weigh Trading Helsley While Planning for Bullpen Continuity
Although the Cardinals remain in contention for a wild-card berth, the prospect of trading Helsley has gained notable traction. Helsley is set to become a free agent after the season, which increases his trade value. St. Louis could capitalize on this opportunity by acquiring a controllable reliever in return, potentially offsetting the loss and preserving bullpen depth.
The Cardinals’ approach suggests a dual strategy: selling high on Helsley while simultaneously addressing their bullpen needs to remain competitive. This balancing act underscores the complexities teams face when navigating the trade deadline.
Potential Impact of a Helsley Trade on Both Teams’ Playoff Hopes
The likelihood of Ryan Helsley moving to the Dodgers carries significant implications. For the Dodgers, his addition would provide a much-needed boost to a faltering bullpen, potentially improving their chances of postseason success. For the Cardinals, the move could mark a pivotal shift in roster construction as they decide how aggressively to pursue the playoffs in the remaining season.
As the deadline approaches, the Cardinals’ decisions will be closely watched, with their choices shaping not only their own fortunes but also influencing the balance of power in the National League. The coming days will be decisive for both franchises as they aim to optimize their rosters for the stretch run.
“Ryan Helsley might be on his way to the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team in desperate need of bullpen reinforcement.” —Mike Axisa, CBS Sports analyst
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How fast does Ryan Helsley throw?
A. Pitch Overview In 2025, their main pitches have been the Fourseam Fastball at 99 mph and the Slider at 89 mph. They occasionally use a Curve at 80 mph and rarely throw a Cutter at 93 mph.