Cardinals, Mets Explore Potential Trades for Pitchers

The St. Louis Cardinals are contemplating trading their star closer, Ryan Helsley, who is set to become a free agent after 2025, with a projected market value of $81 million over six years. Despite his record-breaking performance in 2024, trade speculations are fueled by the Milwaukee Brewers' recent trade of their closer, Devin Williams, to the New York Yankees, which has opened the market. Meanwhile, the New York Mets are eyeing San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease, proposing a trade involving top prospects, as they seek to bolster their rotation following significant offseason acquisitions. The Baltimore Orioles, facing the loss of Corbin Burnes to free agency, are also considering a trade for Cease to strengthen their pitching roster. Cease's market value is projected at $108 million, and his potential availability has drawn significant interest, highlighting the offseason trading landscape. Both the Cardinals and Padres are weighing their options, with the potential for major roster shifts ahead of the 2025 season.