BREAKING: Cardinals Trade Star Closer Ryan Helsley To NL Team

July 30, 2025 ,
St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley Reacts after 2025 game.

The New York Mets have struck a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals to acquire All-Star closer Ryan Helsley.

The Cardinals will receive infield prospect Jesus Baez (No. 8 prospect) and right-handers Frank Ellisalt and Nate Dohm (No. 42 prospect) in the trade.

This move marks the Mets’ third major bullpen addition in a week, following the acquisitions of Tyler Rogers and Gregory Soto. Helsley, 31, brings elite velocity and postseason experience to Queens, pairing with Edwin Díaz to form one of the most formidable late-inning duos in baseball.

Helsley Bolsters a Surging Mets Bullpen

Helsley has posted a 3.09 ERA with 39 strikeouts in 35 innings this season, despite battling a minor toe injury earlier in the year. The hard-throwing righty owns a career 154 ERA+ and recorded a league-best 49 saves in 2024, setting a Cardinals franchise record. His four-seam fastball continues to average nearly 100 mph, complemented by a devastating slider that makes him one of the most dominant relievers in the league.

The Cardinals, who are falling out of the playoff picture, opted to move Helsley before his impending free agency. As a midseason acquisition, he will not be eligible for a qualifying offer this winter.

Mets Loading Up for a Deep Postseason Run

The Mets’ front office has made it clear they’re all-in for October. Helsley joins a bullpen already anchored by Díaz, providing manager Carlos Mendoza the flexibility to deploy two elite closers in high-leverage situations. While the cost was significant, the Mets believe the addition of Helsley, Soto, and Rogers positions them as serious World Series contenders.

Photo Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

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