Earlier this offseason, the Milwaukee Brewers set the tone for the closer trade market by dealing their star reliever, to the New York Yankees. This move created an opportunity for the St. Louis Cardinals to consider trading their own star closer,. According to SBNation’s John Stolnis, this could be a logical step for the Cardinals, who are in the midst of retooling for the future. Stolnis has suggested that the team might explore trading Helsley before the start of spring training in 2025.
“Like (Framber) Valdez, Helsley is eligible for free agency after the upcoming season,” Stolnis wrote. “Given the Cardinals’ current direction, Helsley’s value as the best closer in the game last season is likely higher as a trade asset than as a contributor on the field in 2025. The 30-year-old posted a stellar 2.04 ERA across a league-leading 62 games finished and led all of MLB with 49 saves. He also finished ninth in Cy Young voting and, over the past three seasons, has maintained an impressive 1.83 ERA in 152 games (167 2/3 innings), with a dominant 225/60 K/BB ratio.” Stolnis argues that for any contending team in need of a lockdown closer, Helsley represents an even stronger trade asset than Devin Williams was before his trade to the Yankees.
The trade market for Helsley is expected to intensify once top free-agent closers, such as Tanner Scott, are signed. At that point, Helsley’s value could reach its peak, potentially prompting the Cardinals to listen to trade offers. However, for now, general manager John Mozeliak appears inclined to retain Helsley in St. Louis. That said, the Cardinals’ front office may eventually conclude that trading him sooner rather than later is the best way to maximize his value. Moving Helsley shortly after Scott comes off the free-agent market could be the ideal strategy for St. Louis.
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