Cardinals and Royals Plan Roster Moves for 2025

The St. Louis Cardinals are considering significant roster changes for the 2025 season, including trading All-Star closer Ryan Helsley, who is projected to earn $81 million over six years. With new management under Chaim Bloom, the Cardinals aim to trim salaries and might replace Helsley with Clay Holmes from the Yankees, who has seen his market value drop after a poor second half in 2024. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Royals, after an impressive 2024 season, are looking to bolster their bullpen by potentially signing left-handed reliever Tanner Scott. They also seek offensive upgrades and might target players like Jorge Polanco, Harrison Bader, or Michael Conforto in free agency. The Royals' strategy seems focused on maintaining competitiveness for 2025 following their playoff appearance this year.