Cardinals Consider Trades Involving Helsley, Fedde

The St. Louis Cardinals, amid a disappointing 2025 season, are likely to become sellers at the trade deadline, with All-Star closer Ryan Helsley and pitcher Erick Fedde emerging as key trade candidates. Helsley, who set a franchise saves record last year and is a pending free agent, has been linked to the Atlanta Braves in hypothetical trades involving top prospects Hurston Waldrep and Bryce Elder, though analysts debate the feasibility due to Atlanta's thin farm system. In addition, Fedde, also on an expiring contract, is drawing interest from the Baltimore Orioles, who need pitching help following poor performances from recent acquisitions. These potential moves indicate a strategic shift for the Cardinals toward rebuilding and retooling their roster. The Braves and Orioles are both seeking to address critical weaknesses in their pitching staffs to boost their postseason chances. The evolving trade discussions underscore the Cardinals' balancing act between immediate competitiveness and long-term planning.