Tigers Trade Proposal Nets Two-Time All-Star Ryan Helsley from Cardinals
The Detroit Tigers snapped a rough stretch on Sunday by defeating the Toronto Blue Jays with a 10-run performance—just their second win in 14 games. However, the win also highlighted a pressing issue: the need for bullpen reinforcements. One potential solution? Acquiring All-Star closer Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals.
Helsley, a two-time All-Star, was lights out in 2024, posting a 2.04 ERA over 65 appearances with 79 strikeouts and 23 walks. Though he’s had a bit of a downturn in 2025, he still holds a solid 3.00 ERA over 36 outings.
Detroit’s bullpen has had its moments this season, especially with Tommy Kahnle and Will Vest forming a strong late-inning duo. Recently, however, the relief corps has faltered—Kahnle included. This has led to a proposed trade that would see the Tigers bring in Helsley to stabilize the late innings.
Proposed Trade:
Tigers receive: Ryan Helsley (RHP, Cardinals)
Cardinals receive: Max Anderson (2B prospect) and Tyler Mattison (RHP prospect)
While the Tigers’ bullpen has been relatively effective in 2025, underlying issues have emerged. Their relievers struggle to generate strikeouts, ranking just 19th in the league. This lack of dominance has contributed to Detroit allowing the fourth-most hits, sixth-most homers, and seventh-most runs from the bullpen, alongside an 11th-worst ERA of 4.24.
Though Helsley isn’t quite the force he was last season and would be a rental for the remainder of the year, he would immediately become one of Detroit’s best strikeout options in tight games. The Tigers’ coaching staff might even help him rediscover his overpowering fastball as a true out pitch.
Detroit has legitimate championship aspirations in 2025, but to make a serious run, improvements are necessary ahead of the trade deadline. Acquiring Helsley could be the first of several crucial moves to boost their title hopes.
For the Cardinals: A Future-Focused Move
St. Louis finds itself in a unique position. With a 54–53 record, they’re not a clear-cut seller, but also not guaranteed a playoff berth. Helsley is set to hit free agency after the season, and there’s no certainty he’ll re-sign. Trading him now allows the Cardinals to get value before potentially losing him for nothing.
In the proposed deal, the Cardinals pick up two solid prospects. Max Anderson is a versatile infielder with a quick, line-drive swing who can play both second and third base. Tyler Mattison is a right-handed pitcher who may be close to breaking into the majors.
While parting with Helsley won’t be easy, this trade would allow St. Louis to strengthen their farm system and position themselves better for the future.
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