The Rangers need bullpen help.
The Texas Rangers had a difficult first half, but have turned things around in the second half. They are now tied with the Seattle Mariners for the final American League Wild Card spot.
The offense has started to produce, while the starting rotation remains strong. However, the bullpen is an area that needs work.
Texas doesn't have a true closer-type pitcher at the moment, and there will be a few arms available at the trade deadline. Texas would be wise to add an arm before the deadline passes on Thursday.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic proposed the idea of Texas adding St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Ryan Helsley at the deadline.
"The bullpen recently lost Chris Martin, but essentially replaced him when Jon Gray returned from the IL. Something tells me injury returns won’t be the extent of the additions. My guess: a closer, a la Ryan Helsley, Jhoan Duran or a reunion with Pete Fairbanks," Rosenthal wrote.
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Helsley saved 49 games last year, setting a Cardinals franchise record and ultimately earning the National League Reliever of the Year award. He hasn't been quite as dominant this year, but has still been effective.
The 31-year-old right-hander is 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA in 36 appearances and has also recorded 21 saves this season. The Cardinals are selling, and the two-time All-Star is their top trade chip.
Adding Helsley to the mix would give Texas a true closer for the stretch run of the season. Without a closer, their bullpen is a bit vulnerable.
Texas also has some solid prospects to spare if they do decide to trade for the All-Star closer. St. Louis will have a high asking price.
It will be interesting to see where Texas lands in their search of bullpen help.
More MLB: After tough first half, Rangers expected to be aggressive buyers at trade deadline
Category: Baseball
