The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be entering a rebuilding phase this season, having already allowed several veteran players to leave in free agency. Now, they might explore trading key players like Nolan Arenado and Ryan Helsley.
Helsley, who is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, is a strong candidate to be moved this year. Spotrac projects that the Cardinals’ closer will land an $81 million contract next offseason.
Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller recently predicted that St. Louis will trade Helsley before he reaches free agency, projecting that he will finish the season with the Texas Rangers after a major trade.
“Helsley Ends Season With: Texas Rangers,” Miller wrote. “Among the projected contenders, Texas has the biggest question mark at closer. It’s surprising the Rangers didn’t do more to address that this offseason, but they could make a move in July.”
After contending in 2023, the Rangers struggled in 2024 despite having a talented roster. With Jacob deGrom expected to return at full strength for a full season, they remain a team with potential.
However, Texas lost Kirby Yates to the Los Angeles Dodgers, leaving them without a clear option at closer. Acquiring Helsley would be a major boost, as he led the league in saves in 2024 despite playing for a struggling Cardinals squad.
While trading for Helsley could be costly, it would likely be a worthwhile investment for the Rangers as they look to solidify their bullpen.
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