Blue Jays, Diamondbacks Reportedly Interested in Acquiring All-Star Closer

The Toronto Blue Jays and Arizona Diamondbacks are in pursuit of a high-leverage reliever. With the Diamondbacks coming up just short on acquiring Devin Williams and the Blue Jays continuing their pitching search, closer Ryan Helsley is on the radar of both teams. KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - AUGUST 09: Ryan Helsley #56 of the St. Louis Cardinals celebrates an 8-5 win against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on August 09, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - AUGUST 09: Ryan Helsley #56 of the St. Louis Cardinals celebrates an 8-5 win against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on August 09, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri. Nick Deeds of MLB Trade Rumors is reporting both teams have expressed interest in the All-Star closer, but the St. Louis Cardinals remain adamant Helsley is not for sale. "That apparent disinclination to deal Helsley meshes with a report from earlier this month that characterized St. Louis as unlikely to part ways with Helsley this winter, with president of baseball operations John Mozeliak suggesting at the time that they plan on Helsley remaining with the team for 2025," wrote Deeds. It's important to note that just because a team doesn't seem interested in trading a player doesn't mean they will end up keeping him. Mozeliak knows he has to play his cards right with one of his biggest trade chips. It's been known since Williams was traded to the New York Yankees that the Diamondbacks were in search of a high-leverage reliever. The Blue Jays also know pitching is one of their biggest needs to try and build a winner around Vladimir Guerrero Jr. If Helsley is, in fact, not for sale, then other options are available in free agency. Kenley Jansen, Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates are on the free-agent market as viable closers for teams trying to contend in 2025. David Robertson is a cheaper option as well. More MLB: Cubs Predicted To Trade For $73 Million Ace Following Jesús Luzardo Whiff