The St. Louis Cardinals have some tough decisions awaiting them at the trade deadline. They aren't sure whether they will be buyers or sellers, or potentially holders.
They are 48-43, 6 1/2 games back in the National League Central. They are just one game back of the third Wild Card spot.
However, it's clear that St. Louis doesn't have what it takes to compete with the likes of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tigers, so selling may make the most sense.
J.T. Buchheit of FanSided stated that the Cardinals must capitalize on their chance to trade their relievers on expiring contracts, including two-time All-Star closer Ryan Helsley.
"Helsley, the Cardinals' closing pitcher, has not enjoyed the same level of success that he did in 2024, but he still holds a respectable 3.30 ERA and 17 saves on the season. Matz has dealt with numerous injuries in his three and a half seasons with the Cardinals, but he has been consistent in a relief role, with a 3.45 ERA. Maton, the Cardinals' only free agent signing of the offseason, has performed admirably, owning a 1.91 ERA in 33 innings out of the bullpen," Buchheit wrote.
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The Cardinals blew a chance to capitalize on Helsley's value last offseason when it was at an all-time high. He had just saved a franchise record 49 games and been named the NL Reliever of the Year.
However, they still have one more chance to trade him and their other relievers. All three will likely not be back in 2026, and the Cardinals need to deepen their farm system with prospects.
Despite being five games over .500, the focus needs to be on the future rather than the present. It's clear that they are not a true contender and likely won't last long if they make it to the postseason.
Helsley can bring back a haul of prospects, and Maton could potentially do the same. Matz has the least value of their bullpen trade chips, but could still bring back a strong prospect or two.
It will be interesting to see how the team operates in the coming weeks.
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