The St. Louis Cardinals have received some discouraging developments. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the team is reportedly aiming to trade closer Ryan Helsley, but his recent struggles may be diminishing his market value.
“The Cardinals were hoping to boost Helsley’s trade appeal by keeping him through the first half of the season, but after leading the league with 49 saves last year, he’s managed only four saves in six chances so far, with a 3.60 ERA and a 1.60 WHIP,” Nightengale noted.
Helsley’s season ERA has now climbed to 4.09 after surrendering an earned run against the Mets on May 2. His WHIP sits at 1.55.
Amid a 14-19 record, St. Louis continues searching for solutions. They’ve gone 5-5 over their past 10 games, but pitching remains a major concern.
Helsley, who has given up five earned runs over 11 outings this year, has struggled compared to his previous form. In 2024, he gave up just 15 earned runs in 65 appearances. A two-time All-Star (2022, 2024) and last season’s MLB saves leader, Helsley also earned National League Reliever of the Year honors in 2024.
Cardinals fans are hoping the star closer can regain his top form. The team continues to shuffle its pitching staff, recently calling up top prospect Michael McGreevy from Triple-A Memphis in hopes of stabilizing the rotation.
It’s been a challenging 2025 season for the Cardinals, who are currently second-to-last in the NL Central and have only won four road games. They face the Mets in a doubleheader this Sunday.
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