With the MLB trade deadline approaching, one particular reliever is breaking out as the most sought-after commodity on the market. Combining elite velocity with significant variations up his sleeve, the pitcher is on the radar. He’s the prime target for several teams in desperate need of bullpen reinforcement. His value has skyrocketed of late after consistently hitting the three-figure mark on the speed gun and showing an effective curveball in his arsenal. Yes, we are talking about St. Louis Cardinals’ prized possession, Ryan Helsley.

This season in MLB, many teams have suffered substantial casualties in the bullpen. But none more than the New York Mets. Therefore, it is quite predictable that the Mets, along with many others, are set to go all-in for the 30-year-old chucker. 

Keeping these scenarios in mind, MLB insider Jon Heyman made a bold prediction recently. He reckoned that ‘Hellz Bellz’ will be the most coveted closer with the trade deadline approaching. He’s set to hit the free agency by the end of the season. But that wasn’t all he predicted. With AJ Minter and Danny Young out of the picture for the rest of the year, the signing of Brooks Raley is inevitable—so claimed Heyman. 

Besides the Mets, the Philadelphia Phillies will also look closely at the former Redbird. Despite the presence of All-Stars Matt Strahm and Jeff Hoffman, they are facing inconsistencies in the bullpen. With Helsley in the lineup, the Phillies will have answers to their late-inning options. Then, if everything goes well, he’ll be sharing the workload with the struggling José Alvarado and Seranthony Domínguez.

Other clubs definitely on the lookout for a closer in the market are the Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, and Baltimore Orioles. Their struggles with injuries and form in the area have left them with no choice but to browse free agency. Furthermore, Heyman also validated Helsley’s prominence in the trade window by noting the lack of quality relievers in the market, with left-handed ones being a rare asset. This has only raised the stocks for the Oklahoma-born, which is currently at $8.2 million. And you know how much he is projected to land in free agency? A whopping $81 million, according to Sportrac. That’s why it’s particularly unlikely for the Cardinals to even consider re-signing him. 

After all, this reliever’s ammunition is nothing short of impressive. His four-seam fastball averages 99.5 mph and has been clocked as high as 103.1 mph. The pitch boasts a spin rate of 2,589 RPM, placing it in the 98th percentile. He generates 21% more vertical movement than the average four-seamer. This combination of velocity and movement makes it exceptionally difficult for hitters to make contact.

Other potential targets: A look beyond Ryan Helsley

It’s confirmed that Helsley’s name should be at the top of the wishlist for several teams. But let’s also look at some other options available in the market. The list should come in handy for teams looking to solidify their positions after their struggles this season.

To start, 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcántara’s name can be thrown into the conversation. Coming back from injury, missing out on the 2024 season, Alcántara has shown only glimpses of his signature velocity early this season. His team-friendly contract of $17 million annually through 2026 with a $21 million club option for 2027. This makes him an attractive option for teams seeking a frontline starter.

Emerging as a potent force in 2024, Oakland Athletics’ Brent Rooker can also be seen as a viable option, especially with the A’s in their rebuilding phase. Teams like the Astros, Phillies, Rangers, Reds, and Red Sox will look to the Chicago White Sox for the services of Luis Robert Jr. and Garrett Crochet. The trio has proved to be vital cogs for the White Sox and should be suitable options for teams looking to find answers for the future.

Considering all the aspects, the trade market is an exciting place full of uncertainties and complexities. With the deadline approaching, it is a matter of certainty that Helsley will end up breaking the bank in the acquisition process.