With the July 31 trade deadline only a few days away, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to have their sights on adding another high-leverage relief pitcher to their bullpen.
In recent weeks, the team has been linked to the likes of Jhoan Duran of the Minnesota Twins, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ David Bednar and the Tampa Bay Rays’ Pete Fairbanks, among others.
Ryan Helsley is another high-end closer who could be on the move as the St. Louis Cardinals hover around .500 and face slim chances of making the playoffs.
According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the Dodgers are among several contenders showing interest in Helsley:
Ryan Helsley is one of the most popular trade targets with no less than a half-dozen teams interested to varying degrees. Among the suitors, per sources, are the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Phillies, Rangers and Blue Jays.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 29, 2025
If the Cardinals decide to sell, Helsley could be one of the biggest relievers moved at this year’s trade deadline. He is in the midst of another impressive season, having pitched to a 3.00 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, 10.3 strikeouts per nine and 21 saves across 36 appearances.
The two-time All-Star is set to reach free agency after the 2025 season, which in most years would limit his trade value. However, the Cardinals could take advantage of a seller’s market and potentially get a nice haul from a team in need of bullpen help.
Could Dodgers complete blockbuster trade with Cardinals?
Along with Helsley, the Dodgers are believed to have interest in Cardinals All-Star Brendan Donovan as they explore potential outfield upgrades.
Donovan is a second baseman by trade but also has experience playing left field and would be an option to replace the struggling Michael Conforto if acquired.
The Dodgers could look to add both Donovan and Helsley in the same trade, but that would presumably come at a steep cost. Donovan is under team control through 2027 via salary arbitration.
Although Helsley is due to become a free agent after the 2025 season, there isn’t any shortage of interest.
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