Dodgers predicted to trade for Cardinals 2x All-Star closer

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been the best team in the National League this season. They finished the first half 58-39 and 5 1/2 games up in the NL West.

However, the team has a few weaknesses to address. The defending World Series champions have watched their pitching staff be decimated by injuries.

The bullpen in particular needs some work, as Tanner Scott hasn't quite panned out as the team's closer. 

Mike Axisa of CBS Sports predicts that the Dodgers will acquire Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals.

"Tanner Scott has been a rollercoaster this year and the Dodgers figure to import bullpen help at the deadline, which makes them like every other contender," Axisa writes.

"The Dodgers need late-inning help even with Blake Treinen on the mend. That much is clear. St. Louis has a quality rental reliever to offer."

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Helsley is 3-1 with a 3.27 ERA in 33 appearances this year and has recorded 19 saves. Last year, he set a Cardinals franchise record with 49 saves.

The reigning NL Reliever of the Year will come at a high cost, but the Dodgers have plenty of good prospects to spare, as well as young pitching that could help the Cardinals out in their minor league system.

But Helsley is still an elite back-end arm that could help the Dodgers out down the stretch. He can touch 100 mph with his fastball and could shore things up in the bullpen.

This could help the Dodgers run away with the NL West and potentially even fight for home field advantage through the World Series. We'll see if they give St. Louis a call about Helsley.

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