Trio of Cardinals relievers most likely to be moved at MLB trade deadline

The St. Louis Cardinals are sitting on the outside looking in of the postseason field at the All-Star break. While the Cardinals aren't in a postseason spot, they're still in contention, as they're just 1.5 games back of the Wild Card.

However, even with the team looking to contend, a tough rest of the month could lead the Cardinals to sell. If such a scenario happens, there are three relievers that John Denton of MLB.com identified as the most likely Cardinals to be traded at the deadline.

"Relievers Ryan Helsley," Denton writes, "Phil Maton, and Steven Matz are the players most likely to be traded because of their expiring contracts and MLB's dearth of quality relievers."

Of the three, the most noteworthy is Helsley. He's the longest tenured Cardinal, since 2015, and yet, in the final year of his deal, could be dealt. He'd likely fetch a solid return, as his peak as an All-Star reliever would be appealing to teams around baseball.

Matz and Maton aren't as noteworthy, but are interesting pieces that teams could target. In his 2025 season, Maton has a 2.55 ERA, 45 strikeouts, and one home run allowed in 35.1 innings pitched.

MORE: Cardinals get good news on top Diamondbacks trade targets

His production on the mound this year is the best it's ever been in his career, and could draw teams towards him as a solid, fairly cheap, rental reliever pickup at the deadline.

Matz, on the other hand, has had an interesting season. He's started two games this season, and as a reliever, he routinely goes more than just one inning. OF his 28 games, only seven have gone one inning or less.

With a 3.35 ERA and 45 strikeouts, along with a 5-2 record, in 51 innings pitched, Matz has developed into a strong long-reliever who can pick up depleted pitching staffs and eat innings.

All three relievers Denton mentions as the most likely to be moved would draw interest around the league. And with each being a rental, the Cardinals could find trade partners fast if they decide to sell.

Matz, Maton, and Helsley could all be off the team by the end of the month. But, only if the Cardinals struggled the rest of July. The MLB trade deadline for the Cardinals is sure to be interesting, with the Cardinals expected to be active one way or another, whether it's buying, selling, or both.

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