John Mozeliak maintains unrealistic hopes regarding the Cardinals' trade cards
As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, the St. Louis Cardinals find themselves in a critical juncture, weighing potential moves for key members of their bullpen. Ryan Helsley, Steven Matz, and Phil Maton have all been mentioned in trade discussions, with each player's unique strengths and contract statuses playing a significant role in the team's decisions.
**Ryan Helsley**
Helsley, the team's closing pitcher, has been a prime candidate for trade due to his expiring contract and impressive performance this season. With a 3.30 ERA and 17 saves, Helsley's value as a top closer makes him an attractive asset to several teams, including potential contenders like the Boston Red Sox. However, his five blown saves this season have raised some concerns, potentially lowering his value in the trade market.
**Steven Matz**
Matz, a starting pitcher, has not been specifically linked to trade talks for the 2025 deadline. His role and value would likely depend on the Cardinals' overall strategy, with a potential trade being influenced by their aim to bolster their rotation or seek additional pieces for the future.
**Phil Maton**
Maton has been a standout performer for the Cardinals this season, with a 1.91 ERA and 39 strikeouts through 29.1 innings. While not a primary closer, Maton's performance could make him a candidate to fill the role if Helsley is traded. His lower price tag and strong numbers make him a valuable asset, potentially giving the Cardinals leverage to use him in a relief role or as a trade chip if needed.
The Cardinals' decision to trade any of these players will hinge on their assessment of their playoff chances and their need for future assets. If they are not competitive, trading Helsley or other valuable pieces might be wise to bolster their future prospects.
John Mozeliak, the president of baseball operations for the St. Louis Cardinals, has shown apprehension about trading Helsley, Matz, or Maton. With Mozeliak in his final season, he might be looking for one more successful season to cap off his 19 years with the team. The Cardinals' management often emphasizes the "make the postseason and anything can happen" mantra, but the next few games will be critical in determining the fate of their roster at the trade deadline.
Chaim Bloom, who is set to take over from Mozeliak in 2026, might have input on potential trades of Helsley or others, giving him a head start on reworking the organization. If Mozeliak decides to trade Helsley and the other relief arms, the Cardinals might be able to receive minor league talent in return. Mozeliak might be aiming to leave the Cardinals in a promising state for his successor.
Some fans might silently hope for the Cardinals to go into a tailspin to dissuade Mozeliak from making trades that could affect the future of the team. However, the team's performance in the coming weeks will ultimately dictate their moves at the trade deadline.
- Despite Steven Matz not being specifically linked to trade talks for the 2025 deadline, the Cardinals might consider trading him if their strategy is to strengthen their rotation or seek additional pieces for the future.
- The possibility of the Boston Red Sox showing interest in Ryan Helsley, the Cardinals' closing pitcher, increases, as his impressive performance this season makes him an attractive asset to several teams, including potential contenders like the Red Sox.
