The Philadelphia Phillies currently sit atop the National League East with a 56-43 record. They are a half-game ahead of the New York Mets.
They remain one of the NL's top teams, but have some holes to fill at the trade deadline. The bullpen is an area of concern for this team.
While they did sign David Robertson, he will need time to ramp up. Jordan Romano also hasn't panned out as their closer and Jose Alvarado is ineligible for the postseason.
Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel of ESPN listed Ryan Helsley as a top trade candidate and had the Phillies as a possible fit.
"Helsley had the fourth-best WAR among relievers last season and is in a contract year now but has been notably worse this season. His stuff and location are similar, but the main difference is that his fastball is getting hit hard -- with one byproduct being his spiking home run rate."
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Helsley saved 49 games last season with the St. Louis Cardinals, breaking Trevor Rosenthal's record of 48 from 2015. This year, he is 3-1 with a 3.18 ERA in 34 appearances and has recorded 19 saves.
While not as dominant as last year, he still has been solid, and the Phillies would benefit from having him at the back end of their bullpen. They also have the prospect capital to get a deal done.
The Cardinals are likely going to sell soon after being swept by the Arizona Diamondbacks. Helsley is their top trade chip.
But the Phillies need somebody to fix the issues in their bullpen, and acquiring Helsley would be a good first step after signing Robertson. His velocity remains a strength, and perhaps the Phillies could fix the issues that have plagued him in 2025.
We'll see if they give St. Louis a call about the All-Star closer.
More MLB: Phillies called 'No. 1' trade fit for Athletics superstar by MLB insider