The New York Yankees were lucky to have a dominant closer this season, though not the one they originally planned on.
When Devin Williams struggled early in the year, Luke Weaver stepped into the closer role and thrived, posting a 1.05 ERA and recording eight saves over 25 2/3 innings. However, Weaver has now landed on the injured list with a hamstring strain.
The Yankees are hopeful that Weaver will return before the July 31 trade deadline, with a preliminary recovery estimate of four to six weeks pending further evaluation. In the meantime, Williams — a two-time NL Reliever of the Year — is expected to reclaim ninth-inning duties.
Still, one baseball analyst believes the Yankees shouldn’t wait around. According to Zach Kaplan of Athlon, New York should actively explore trade options to reinforce the bullpen, even with Weaver expected back.
Kaplan named St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley as the top target. “Though Helsley is currently closing games for a surprisingly competitive Cardinals team, his looming free agency could make him available,” Kaplan wrote, citing his four straight seasons with a sub-3.00 ERA and a projected six-year, $81 million payday — a deal the cost-conscious Cardinals may shy away from.
Kaplan argues that the Yankees have the prospect depth to acquire Helsley, who would come at a lower price than bigger-name targets like Mason Miller or Sandy Alcantara.
Whether the Cardinals decide to move Helsley — especially while in the wild card race — remains uncertain, but if they do, it could present a major opportunity for New York.
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