The Philadelphia Phillies have surged to the top of the National League East and now have the second-best record in the Senior Circuit.
But even Philadelphia has a few weaknesses that need to be addressed. Their bullpen hasn’t been great this season.
To make matters worse, Jose Alvarado was handed an 80-game PED suspension, making him ineligible to pitch in the postseason.
Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel of ESPN listed the Phillies as a possible landing spot for former All-Star closer Ryan Helsley.
“Helsley had the fourth-best WAR among relievers last season and is in a contract year now but has been notably worse this season. His stuff and locations are pretty similar, but the main difference is his fastball is getting hit hard — with one byproduct being his spiking home run rate.”
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Helsley could cost a significant haul at the trade deadline, though possibly less than if he was dealt in the offseason.
But the Phillies need a proven veteran to settle things down at the back end of their bullpen. Helsley can hit triple digits with his fastball and is the reigning NL Reliever of the Year after setting a St. Louis Cardinals franchise record with 49 saves.
This year, he’s 3-0 with a 3.67 ERA and has recorded 14 saves. He has not been quite as effective this season.
But he could still help the Phillies out in a big way as they try to make a run at another NL East title.
It will be interesting to see what they decide to do.
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