Overview

• Helsley said Thursday he believes there’s a 90 percent chance he’ll be traded before the July 31 deadline.
• His expiring contract is projected by Spotrac to be worth $81 million in free agency, elevating his trade value.
• The 31-year-old closer has recorded a 3.09 ERA over 35 innings this season while his strikeout rate has fallen to 25.5 percent.
• The Cardinals announced a multi-year rebuild in October and have since signaled a willingness to trade veteran assets to restock their system.
• Deadline acquisitions of elite relievers like Helsley are seen as pivotal for playoff contenders seeking late-inning strength.