The St. Louis Cardinals are off to a rough start in 2025. They are 12-17 through their first 29 games of the year.
All signs point to them being sellers at this year's trade deadline on July 31. There is still plenty of time left in the season, but the Cardinals are digging themselves a hole once again.
One of the main pieces they could trade away is All-Star closer Ryan Helsley.
He is in the final year of his contract, and the Cardinals weren't looking to contend in 2025 anyway.
USA Today's Bob Nightengale reports that the two-time All-Star is already receiving trade interest from a few teams.
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"The Philadelphia Phillies, among other teams, already are keeping a close eye on Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, who will likely be dealt by the trade deadline," Nightengale said.
"The Arizona Diamondbacks, with lefty reliever A.J. Puk sidelined for the foreseeable future, also have interest in Helsley."
Helsley saved 49 games last season, setting a Cardinals franchise record. That was enough for him to earn his second All-Star nod, as well as National League Reliever of the Year honors.
In 10 appearances this season, Helsley is 1-0 with a 3.60 ERA and has recorded four saves, but his exposure has been limited with the losses piling up for St. Louis.
There likely won't be a trade of Helsley until July, but the Phillies and Diamondbacks need relief help. The 30-year-old would bring back a massive haul of prospects to help the Cardinals get on with their "reset" plans.
We'll see where things stand at the deadline.
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