Speculation has swirled around the St. Louis Cardinals this offseason following reports that the team might be entering a rebuild. Much of the chatter has centered on potential trades the Cardinals could explore.
Key names in the trade discussions include Sonny Gray, Nolan Arenado, and Ryan Helsley. However, none of these players have been dealt so far.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic recently addressed one of the most significant rumors involving the Cardinals.
“As the St. Louis Cardinals reset, closer Ryan Helsley appears perhaps their most obvious trade candidate,” Rosenthal wrote. “But teams talking to the Cardinals are under the impression the team will hold onto Helsley, and president of baseball operations John Mozeliak does not dispute that point.”
Mozeliak confirmed this sentiment, telling Rosenthal and The Athletic on Thursday, “It’s something we will always remain open-minded to, but our plan is to have him be part of our organization.”
Helsley would be a prime target for any team aiming to contend immediately. While his contract runs through the 2025 season, he is widely regarded as one of the league’s top closers. In 2024, Helsley posted an impressive 2.04 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and a 206 ERA+. Despite playing on a team that won just 83 games, he led the league with 49 saves.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees, both 2024 World Series participants, are two teams likely eyeing Helsley as an ideal acquisition. Both clubs are losing their closers to free agency this winter, and Helsley would represent a significant upgrade.
Still, any potential trade involving Helsley would likely have to wait until the season begins.
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