Ryan Helsley

Helsley entered 2024 with a tentative grasp on the closer role in St. Louis, but the hard-throwing righty led the majors with 49 saves, setting the Cardinals franchise record for a single season. Prior to the campaign, he had yet to achieve a 20-save season and had trouble staying healthy, but Helsley rewarded drafters who exhibited a higher risk tolerance. In fact, he did not miss any time, establishing new career-highs in games played (65) and innings pitched (66.1). Helsey's 89.1 percent team save share was the 2nd-highest mark among closers. The injury risk remains for someone who throws as hard as Helsley does - he averaged 99.6 mph on his fastball (5th among relievers) - but the 30-year-old still warrants a pick among the top-10 closers for 2025. Just keep in mind this is Helsley's final year of salary arbitration before he becomes a free-agent. If the Cardinals aren't competitive in 2025, he'll be a likely trade candidate. Read Past Outlooks