The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be rebuilding this season. They’ve already allowed a variety of veterans leave in free agency. They could now attempt to trade players such as Nolan Arenado and Ryan Helsley. Helsley, who will be a free agency at the end of the 2025 season, appears to be a target for trade this season. Spotrac predicts the Cardinals’ closer will sign for $81 million next offseason.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report recently predicted that the Cardinals would trade Helsley before he enters free agency. Miller believes the righty will complete the season with the Texas Rangers after being acquired in a massive trade. “Helsley Ends Season With: Texas Rangers,” Miller wrote. “Of the anticipated contenders, Texas has the biggest question mark at closer. It’s strange that the Rangers didn’t do more about it this offseason, but they can handle it in July.”
The Rangers were a contender in 2023 but dropped off the radar in 2024. They have a lot of talent, particularly with Jacob deGrom back at full strength for the entire season. However, Texas watched as Kirby Yates betrayed the franchise to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Now, the Rangers are without a closer.
Purchasing Helsley would be a significant move in the right direction for Texas. Despite playing for the failing Cardinals, the right-hander led the league in saves in 2024. Helsley is likely to emulate his success as a Ranger. It may be pricey to send him to Texas, but it is likely to be worthwhile.
