The St. Louis Cardinals have received some disappointing news. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the team is reportedly looking to trade closer, but his recent struggles may be diminishing his value on the market.
“The Cardinals were hoping that keeping Him through the first half of the season would boost his trade value,” Nightengale reported. “However, after leading the league with 49 saves last year, he has just four saves in six chances this season, with a 3.60 ERA and a 1.60 WHIP.”
Following a May 2 outing against the New York Mets in which he gave up a run, Helsley now holds a 4.09 ERA and a 1.55 WHIP for the season.
As they sit at 14-19 on the year and having gone 5-5 in their last 10 games, the Cardinals continue to search for solutions.
Cardinals are looking for answers at pitcher
Ryan Helsley has had a rough start to the season for St. Louis. Through 11 outings, he’s given up five earned runs—a noticeable dip in performance compared to last year, when he surrendered only 15 earned runs across 65 games.
Known for his command on the mound, Helsley isn’t typically prone to such struggles. He’s a two-time All-Star, earning selections in 2022 and 2024. He also led all of Major League Baseball with 49 saves last season.
His dominance earned him the title of National League Reliever of the Year in 2024.
Cardinals fans are hoping the team’s closer can return to form. St. Louis has been experimenting with different combinations in its rotation and bullpen, trying to stabilize a shaky pitching staff. Recently, the team called up top pitching prospect Michael McGreevy from Triple-A Memphis in hopes of providing a spark.
Overall, it’s been a challenging season for the Cardinals. Their inability to consistently record outs has them near the bottom of the NL Central standings. They’ve managed just four road wins so far in 2025.
The Cardinals face a doubleheader against the Mets this Sunday.
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