Phillies Target Cardinals Closer Helsley Before Deadline

With the MLB trade deadline approaching, the Philadelphia Phillies are targeting St. Louis Cardinals All-Star closer Ryan Helsley to strengthen their struggling bullpen, especially as current closer Jordan Romano has underperformed. Multiple analysts, including Trevor Plouffe and Jim Bowden, identify Helsley as the Phillies' primary bullpen target, with a proposed straight-up trade involving Phillies pitching prospect Mick Abel. Helsley, the reigning NL Reliever of the Year and an impending free agent, is likely to attract interest from other contenders such as the Rangers, Mariners, and Cubs. The Cardinals, facing a disappointing season, are expected to become sellers and are motivated to deal Helsley before he reaches free agency. The Phillies' urgency to compete for a postseason spot, particularly against rivals like the Mets, makes them the frontrunner for Helsley's services. The longstanding positive relationship between the two teams' front offices could help facilitate a high-profile trade.