Cardinals Mull Trade Deadline as Playoff Hopes Rise

The St. Louis Cardinals have exceeded expectations in the 2025 MLB season and are actively contending for a Wild Card spot, creating uncertainty over their trade deadline strategy. While All-Star closer Ryan Helsley remains a valuable asset with an expiring contract, the team is hesitant to trade key bullpen arms unless their playoff hopes diminish. The front office is weighing options such as targeting Tampa Bay pitcher Taj Bradley or Cleveland closer Emmanuel Clase, though these moves could require giving up top prospects. Trading Helsley could replenish the farm system, but acquiring a long-term replacement like Clase would provide stability. President John Mozeliak has stated that the team's approach will depend on their performance leading up to the deadline, with a slump potentially shifting them from buyers to sellers. The Cardinals' July results will significantly influence whether they strengthen their roster or pivot toward rebuilding.