Cardinals' Ryan Helsley Reportedly Expected to Be Top Reliever on MLB Trade Market

St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley is expected to be the top relief pitcher available ahead of the July 31 trade deadline, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

"The best reliever available is expected to be Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, who’s a free agent after the year," Heyman reported Friday. "The 100-mph-throwing Helsley is employing a curve more."

The right-hander could generate more interest as the deadline draws closer, but teams searching for lefty bullpen options might have some difficulty.

The trade supply of left-handed relievers is "almost nil," per Heyman.

Helsley wrapped up an impressive 2024 campaign in St. Louis, leading the majors with 49 saves while posting a 2.04 ERA and racking up 79 strikeouts in 66.1 innings.

The two-time All-Star hasn't been as sharp to open the 2025 season, owning a 3.46 ERA in his first 13 appearances.

Still, opposing teams could be enticed by his recent history. From 2022-24, Helsley racked up 82 saves and averaged 12.1 strikeouts per nine innings.

The Cardinals currently sit at No. 2 in the National League Central standings with a 20-19 record, but they could become increasingly open to moving Helsley if they struggle near the deadline.

There shouldn't be any shortage of interest in the 30-year-old, with USA Today's Bob Nightengale reporting on April 27 that the Arizona Diamondbacks and Philadelphia Phillies are keeping a close eye on Helsley "among other teams."

As opposing front offices look to strengthen their bullpens and prepare for postseason pushes, Helsley could experience a change of scenery prior to the deadline.