The St. Louis Cardinals appear to be embracing a full-scale rebuild, and the future of star closer Ryan Helsley is becoming a focal point. While Helsley remains on the roster for now, his departure seems increasingly likely. With his contract set to expire after the 2025 season, and Spotrac projecting him to command an $81 million deal in free agency, the Cardinals might trade him to maximize their rebuilding efforts.
Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report recently proposed a trade scenario sending Helsley to the Arizona Diamondbacks. The suggested deal includes the following:
- Arizona Diamondbacks receive: RHP Ryan Helsley
- St. Louis Cardinals receive: RHP Yilber Diaz (No. 6 prospect in Arizona’s system)
According to Rymer, Arizona’s bullpen woes from the 2024 season make Helsley an ideal target to strengthen their roster. “Though they’ve fortified a rotation that was a weakness in 2024, they have yet to do the same with a bullpen that was a major drain on their win probability,” Rymer wrote. A Helsley trade could transform the Diamondbacks’ bullpen into a key strength and bolster their chances in the competitive National League West.
Arizona, already making waves this offseason by acquiring Corbin Burnes, could take another significant step forward with Helsley. Moves like these signal the Diamondbacks’ intent to compete with the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers and potentially elevate their status as serious playoff contenders.
For the Cardinals, trading Helsley would bring in young talent, like Yilber Diaz, that fits their rebuilding timeline. As the 2025 season approaches, this type of move could be pivotal for both teams, offering the Cardinals a valuable asset and giving Arizona the bullpen upgrade they need to contend.
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