It sounds like Ryan Helsley could indeed be a key trade piece for the St. Louis Cardinals this season, especially with the expectation that he will be a high-value free agent after the season ends.
The suggested trade with the Philadelphia Phillies—Helsley for Mick Abel—is an interesting one. Helsley would provide the Phillies with a proven closer, filling a significant gap, while the Cardinals could get a young arm in return.
As you pointed out, with the market for relievers being so strong, it seems likely that the Phillies would need to add more, like another top prospect, to make this trade truly happen. Trading for Helsley could significantly help the Phillies’ bullpen as they look to compete in the NL East.