With the MLB trade deadline just days away, the St. Louis Cardinals are preparing for a significant reshaping of their bullpen. At the center of this speculation is Ryan Helsley, whose potential move has grabbed the attention of multiple teams as the Cardinals evaluate their strategy amid the high-stakes deadline.
Amid growing trade discussions, the focus on Ryan Helsley trade deadline speculation intensifies as rival clubs seek to bolster their bullpens with top relievers.
Ryan Helsley Emerges as a Top Trade Candidate
Bob Nightengale, an established MLB insider, identified Helsley as one of the three premier relievers most likely to be traded before the deadline, along with Minnesota’s Jhoan Duran and Pittsburgh’s David Bednar. These pitchers stand out not only for their recent performance but also for contractual nuances that influence their market value.
Teams believe that the best three relievers traded at the deadline will be Jhoan Duran, David Bednar, and Ryan Helsley,
Nightengale reported.
Duran, with a longer contract, is anticipated to draw the most lucrative offers, while Bednar remains under control through 2026. Helsley, however, is in the final year of his deal, which could influence the type of return the Cardinals might receive.
Performance Metrics Highlight Helsley’s Value
Despite being a rental player, the 31-year-old Helsley is a vital presence in the Cardinals’ bullpen. He currently holds a 3.00 ERA over 36 appearances, has secured 21 saves, struck out 41 batters, and walked only 14 in 36 innings pitched. His 139 ERA+ indicates his effectiveness remains strong, even if slightly down from previous seasons, making him an attractive option for teams seeking reliable closing options.
Trade Rumors Gain Momentum
The talk of Helsley’s trade prospects has intensified, with the closer himself acknowledging a strong possibility of being moved. In a recent interview, he expressed that there is a 90 percent chance he could be traded before the deadline. As the longest-standing member of the Cardinals’ roster, his potential departure would mark a pivotal moment for the franchise and for Helsley personally.
Trade Market Activity Influences Cardinals’ Plans
The Cardinals’ bullpen decisions come amid a dynamic trade market where teams like the San Diego Padres evaluate options such as Dylan Cease and Michael King. Similarly, the Detroit Tigers seek to acquire an impactful closer, while the Chicago Cubs pursue bullpen enhancements, intensifying competition for elite relievers. These shifts in player availability and demand heighten the significance of the Cardinals’ choices in the closing days of the trade window.
What Lies Ahead for the Cardinals and Their Bullpen
With the trade deadline closing in, the Cardinals face a challenging balancing act between rebuilding and maintaining bullpen strength. Ryan Helsley’s potential trade represents a watershed moment, as the team weighs the return it can secure against the loss of a proven closer. The outcome of these decisions will likely shape the Cardinals’ roster for the remainder of the season and beyond, making the days ahead critical for the franchise’s direction.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How fast can Ryan Helsley throw?
A. Net Worth in the Millions By 2020, Ryan was estimated to earn about $29.5 million yearly, ranking him as the top-paid YouTuber. By 2024, Ryan Kaji’s net worth is believed to be over $100 million, driven by his activities beyond YouTube.
Q. How fast does Ryan Helsley throw?
A. The Mets’ commentators talk about Ryan Helsley and the tomahawk chop tradition. Helsley throws a fastball at 100 MPH and a slider at 91 MPH.