Mets Bolster Bullpen with Ryan Helsley Acquisition
The New York Mets have made a significant move to strengthen their bullpen, acquiring star pitcher Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals. The official announcement was made on Wednesday, marking a crucial step in the team’s strategy for the season.
Helsley, recognized as one of the most outstanding closers in baseball, arrives at the Mets with the expectation of taking on a key role in the bullpen, complementing All-Star closer Edwin Díaz.
This acquisition adds to the arrival of Tyler Rogers, also a right-handed reliever, who was obtained through a trade with the San Francisco Giants. These incorporations offer a notable strategic diversity for the team.
Rogers is distinguished by his submarine delivery and an 83 mph sinker, while Helsley stands out for his powerful fastball, which averages over 99 mph.
The Mets began their bullpen renovation mid-season with the arrival of left-hander Gregory Soto from the Baltimore Orioles. These three veterans promise to revitalize a relief corps that has faced significant challenges due to injuries and workload.
Before Wednesday’s game, the Mets held a slight lead in the National League East over the Philadelphia Phillies, who also bolstered their bullpen with the acquisition of Jhoan Duran from the Twins.
Helsley, 31, has been a coveted piece in the relief pitcher market. This season, he recorded an ERA of 3.00 with 21 saves in 36 appearances with the Cardinals.
During the period from 2022 to 2024, Helsley accumulated 82 saves, ranking sixth among all relievers. In addition, he maintained an impressive 1.83 ERA in that span.
The Cardinals received third baseman Jesús Báez and right-handed pitchers Nate Dohm and Frank Elissalt in the deal.
The Mets continue to be active in the transfer market, looking to acquire a center fielder before the Thursday deadline at 6 p.m. ET.
