Phillies Eye Cardinals’ Ryan Helsley to Fix Bullpen Issues Ahead of Trade Deadline
As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Philadelphia Phillies are expected to be active in bolstering their roster, with a sharp focus on addressing their bullpen woes. Despite being consistent postseason contenders in recent years, the Phillies have struggled to convert those appearances into a championship. With the team currently more than 10 games above .500 and solidly positioned in the National League Wild Card race, they’re on track for yet another playoff run—but their success could hinge on fixing key weaknesses.
The bullpen has been a major area of concern for Philadelphia throughout the 2025 season, and the situation has deteriorated further following the suspension of José Alvarado. His 80-game ban effectively rules him out for the rest of the regular season and postseason, eliminating one of the Phillies’ most dependable late-game arms. This development elevates the urgency of acquiring high-leverage relief pitching, particularly a proven closer.
Even before Alvarado’s suspension, Philadelphia’s front office had likely been considering bullpen upgrades. Now, finding a trustworthy closer has become a top priority. One standout candidate on the trade market is Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals.
Helsley, 30, was among baseball’s elite closers in 2024. He notched 49 saves—most in the league—and recorded a stellar 2.04 ERA. Though the Cardinals weighed trade options for him during the previous offseason, they chose to retain him as he entered the final year of his contract. But with St. Louis now slipping out of the playoff race, they may be more open to dealing the All-Star right-hander.
Helsley hasn’t quite matched his 2024 dominance this year, but that could work in Philadelphia’s favor. A slightly less commanding performance could lower his trade value, giving the Phillies a better shot at acquiring him without surrendering top-tier prospects.
As the Cardinals look more like sellers with each passing week, Helsley could emerge as one of the most sought-after bullpen arms on the market. For the Phillies, who urgently need a dependable closer, the fit seems natural—especially if the acquisition cost aligns with their strategy.
Of course, Philadelphia won’t be alone in its interest. Contending teams across the league are always looking for late-inning help, and Helsley will draw considerable attention. However, the Phillies are uniquely positioned with the combination of a pressing need, enough prospect capital to make a deal, and strong postseason ambitions. They are expected to be linked to many relievers, but Helsley’s track record and contract status make him an especially compelling target.
If the Phillies are serious about making a deep October run, fortifying the bullpen is non-negotiable. Acquiring an experienced and capable closer could be the deciding factor between another early exit and a legitimate World Series push. Among the possible candidates, Ryan Helsley stands out as a near-perfect solution—and potentially the missing piece to elevate Philadelphia’s title hopes.
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