Home / Sports / Dodgers Intensify Hunt for Bullpen Help, Eyeing Cardinals' Helsley
Dodgers Intensify Hunt for Bullpen Help, Eyeing Cardinals' Helsley
1 Aug
Summary
- Dodgers' bullpen struggles despite strong offense
- Dodgers interested in acquiring Cardinals' closer Ryan Helsley
- Helsley has shown signs of improvement since June 5th
As of August 1st, 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers hold a modest four-game lead in the NL West, but their bullpen has been a persistent issue. Injuries to key relievers like Blake Treinen, Kirby Yates, Michael Kopech, and Tanner Scott have taken a toll, and even when healthy, the Dodgers' core of relief pitchers has not consistently delivered strong performances.
Recognizing the need to address their bullpen woes, the Dodgers' president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, has been scouring the trade market for viable relief arms. One player the Dodgers are showing interest in is St. Louis Cardinals' closer Ryan Helsley, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.
Helsley, an impending free agent, has been a popular trade target, with several teams, including the Yankees, Mets, Phillies, Rangers, and Blue Jays, expressing varying degrees of interest. While Helsley's numbers this season have not been as dominant as his Reliever of the Year award-winning campaign, he has shown signs of regaining his All-Star form since June 5th, posting a 3.00 ERA, 18 strikeouts, and eight saves in 15 innings.
If the Dodgers are willing to overpay for a rental, Helsley could be the perfect fit to bolster their bullpen and increase their odds of repeating as World Series champions.
