The St. Louis Cardinals will be busy scheming ways to reduce payroll this winter while providing opportunities for youngsters to gain big-league experience. This likely means several notable names will be removed from the roster this winter, whether by passing on a contract extension or trade.

St. Louis fan favorite has been mentioned as a potential trade chip for the New York Yankees in what would be a devastating loss for the Cardinals bullpen. “Anyone in need of a closer need only look at the National League Central, where two of the best in baseball will be available,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan wrote Monday when discussing potential trades that could take place this winter. “Executives say Milwaukee’s Devin Williams and St. Louis’ Ryan Helsley are both on the market, and they expect both to be moved at some point this winter.”

Helsley posted a 7-4 record with a 2.04 ERA, 79-to-23 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .210 batting average against, a 1.10 WHIP and a league-leading 49 saves in 66 1/3 innings pitched for the St. Louis this season. “Teams in the market for a closer could include the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers and San Francisco Giants, though realistically, any team would gladly add either Williams or Helsley to its bullpen,” Passan continued.

After logging a career year with the Cardinals in 2024, Helsley’s projected market value has soared to roughly $80 million over a six-year deal, translating to nearly $13 million annually, according to Spotrac. Trading the flamethrower will likely be the Cardinals’ best chance at restocking their poorly ranked farm system this offseason.

Rebuilding a franchise takes time and often requires painful decisions. Sadly, trading Helsley might be necessary to help the Cardinals move forward. Sending him to a big-market club, such as the Yankees, could generate a profitable return for St. Louis’ future.