The St. Louis Cardinals have been the subject of trade speculation throughout the season as the July 31 trade deadline approaches. Despite that, the team is performing well and sits just five games behind the division-leading Chicago Cubs in the NL Central. Amid these trade rumors, one of the team’s All-Stars appears interested in staying put.
According to Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, closer is open to negotiating a new contract. While there has been speculation that the Cardinals might trade the 30-year-old reliever, the team’s recent success could prompt the front office to pursue a long-term extension instead.
“There’s a lot to unpack here,” Goold said. “Let’s break it down. First, there haven’t been recent talks, but that doesn’t mean the window is closed. He remains open to discussions, and as long as that’s the case, the team can still engage.
Second, the top-paid relievers earn around $20 million a year, and He would likely command upwards of $16 million annually, possibly in a four-year deal with an option for a fifth, or a straight five-year contract.”
Helsley is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, and if he reaches the open market, he’s expected to draw significant interest from around the league. With the Cardinals still in playoff contention, they’ll have to weigh the risk of losing a key piece like Helsley for nothing.
The veteran closer is in the midst of another strong campaign, posting a 3.00 ERA, a 1.429 WHIP, 23 strikeouts, and 13 saves over 21 innings pitched.
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