MLB Trade Rumors: 2 Contenders Named As Suitors for Closer Ryan Helsley

Two teams, both contenders, have been identified as pursuers of Cardinals' closer Ryan Helsley

Ryan Helsley was the top closer in baseball last season, with a major league-leading 49 saves, a 2.04 ERA and his second All-Star appearance. And although he's off to a slower start this year with the St. Louis Cardinals, with just four saves in six chances and a troublesome 10:8 K/BB ratio in 10 innings, he will still be the top bullpen acquisition any team can make in the 2025 season.

Two teams, both contenders, have been identified by insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today as pursuers of Helsley:

Philadelphia Phillies

The Phils, he says, are "already are keeping a close eye" on Helsley. As is often the case, the Phillies bullpen is one of their weak spots, with 7 saves in 14 opportunities. They're 22nd in baseball in late/close situations, allowing a .253 opponents batting average.

But how much will they be willing to give up to get Helsley? Nightengale writes that "the Phillies are adamant they will not include top prospects Andrew Painter or Aidan Miller in any trade."

Arizona Diamonbacks

The Snakes are dead last in baseball in late/close game situations, with their bullpen surrendering a .304 average and a 1.59 WHIP puts them in 24th in that category. AJ Puk, one of their top late-inning guys, is out for three months. Helsley would be a big get for the D-Backs' pen.

Nightengale says they've shown interest in Helsley.

We might also add the Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers and Milwaukee Brewers as teams in need of a closer like Helsley.

We also recently had a look at 4 other potential closers who could be on the move this season.