St Louis Cardinals Expected to Sell Key Players Ahead Trade Deadline

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, the St. Louis Cardinals are facing a critical decision between attempting a long-shot playoff push or selling key assets to rebuild for the future. The team currently sits 7.5 games behind in the NL Central, and despite being mathematically alive in the Wild Card race, their chances of competing with top teams appear slim. Among potential trade candidates, All-Star closer Ryan Helsley stands out as a valuable rental asset due to his strong season performance and impending free agency, likely to attract interest from contenders like the Dodgers, Mets, and Phillies. Other players discussed as trade considerations include outfielder Jordan Walker, a former top prospect struggling offensively, and Nolan Gorman, who recently hit the injured list, complicating roster decisions. The Cardinals also have several expiring pitching contracts, such as Phil Maton and Steven Matz, that could be leveraged to acquire prospects and inject youth into the organization. Overall, the consensus among analysts is that the Cardinals are increasingly leaning toward selling to rebuild, although some young core players remain part of their long-term plans.