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Cardinals Bullpen Trio Sparks Bidding War Ahead of Deadline
30 Jul
Summary
- Cardinals' relief pitchers Helsley, Maton, and Matz drawing interest from rival clubs
- Helsley, a two-time All-Star, is the top closer available on the market
- Cardinals president Mozeliak known for making deadline deals at the last minute
The St. Louis Cardinals are fielding calls from rival clubs regarding their relief pitching trio of Ryan Helsley, Phil Maton, and Steven Matz. The bullpen market is far from formed, but the Cardinals hold considerable leverage over their assets.
Helsley, the Cardinals' closer, is a two-time All-Star and the top reliever available on the trade market. The Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and Detroit Tigers are all believed to be interested in acquiring him. Helsley's value has soared after the Cleveland Guardians' closer Emmanuel Clase was placed on the disciplinary paid leave list.
Matz has thrived as a late-inning reliever for the Cardinals, and other clubs could view him as a swingman option. The Blue Jays, where Matz spent the 2021 season, are reportedly interested in a reunion.
Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak is prepared to wait for the right deal, and his history suggests he'll do just that. Most of Mozeliak's significant trades have occurred on the day of the deadline or just hours before, including the deals for Tommy Edman, Jack Flaherty, Jordan Montgomery, and Jon Lester.
