Dodgers Rumors: Dodgers Eye Cardinals’ Ryan Helsley Amid Bullpen Concerns
With the trade deadline looming, the Dodgers are eyeing Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley as they look to address key bullpen struggles fueled by the underperformance of high-priced relievers Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates.
As the MLB Trade Deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Dodgers are actively exploring options to strengthen their bullpen. One team that has emerged as a potential trade partner is the St. Louis Cardinals, with right-handed reliever Ryan Helsley generating interest.
Helsley, currently in the final year of his contract, is set to hit free agency at the end of the season. The 31-year-old has posted a 3.27 ERA for the Cardinals this season. While he endured early-season struggles, Helsley has recently found his rhythm and become a more dependable option in late innings.
For the Dodgers, bullpen inconsistency has been a persistent concern throughout the season. High-priced relievers like Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates have underperformed. Scott, who signed a four-year, $72 million contract this past offseason, making him the highest-paid reliever on the market, has struggled to find his footing, recording a 4.09 ERA, his highest since 2022.
Yates, 38, signed a one-year, $15 million deal after a strong 2024 campaign. While his numbers haven’t been disastrous, they haven’t quite justified the investment, especially considering his age and previous production.
Los Angeles has been linked to numerous bullpen arms around the league, including Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax of the Minnesota Twins, as well as Emmanuel Clase of the Cleveland Guardians. All are seen as potential upgrades who could provide more consistency in high-leverage situations.
With October ambitions in mind, the Dodgers are expected to be aggressive at the deadline. Whether they land Helsley or look elsewhere, bullpen reinforcements seem inevitable as the club looks to shore up its roster for another deep postseason run.
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