Cubs’ bid for ex-rival’s closer just got derailed by bizarre twist

The Chicago Cubs already turned to the St. Louis Cardinals' 2025 bullpen once this offseason to address their need for high-leverage arms, adding Phil Maton on a multi-year deal, and with reports that Jed Hoyer is setting his sights even higher for his next bullpen addition, it would be fair to speculate that former Cardinals' closer Ryan Helsley is on their radar.

Considering the struggles that Helsley had after being traded from the Cardinals to the New York Mets last season, the common belief was that he would be a more affordable option on a market that also includes Devin Williams, Edwin Diaz, and Robert Suarez.

In bullpen that includes Daniel Palencia, and Maton, as high-leverage options, Helsley being the final big swing Hoyer took for a bullpen upgrade this offseason makes sense, Beyond being able to top 100 mph with his fastball, the shape of pitch is something the Cubs have preferred when targeting pitchers, and his career strikeout rate of 28.7% would be a welcomed sight.

Again, assuming the Cubs indeed are looking for another splurge for the bullpen while avoiding the top of the market, Helsley makes sense, especially with a contract projection carrying an AAV around $12 million. However, a curious report from The Athletic suggests that teams, including the Detroit Tigers, have interest in Helsley as a starting pitcher this offseason.

Ryan Helsley's free agency twist could rule the Chicago Cubs out as a potential suitor.

Surprisingly, this is not the first free-agent reliever the Cubs have interest in who could receive offers to be a starting pitcher. Brad Keller, who revived his career in Chicago last season, is drawing interest as a starting pitcher this offseason. While the Cubs have interest in bringing back Keller this offseason, they certainly won't match the money attached to him being viewed as a starting pitcher.

The same would likely be true for Helsley, who, unlike Keller, hasn't made a single start at the Major League level. Add in that Helsley is primarily a two-pitch pitcher, fastball and slider, it's hard to point to what teams like the Tigers see with the belief that he could be a starting pitcher.

While the Cubs have a need for a starting pitcher, there isn't any scenario where Helsley should be how they check that box. However, in a world where Helsley is looking for a bounce-back deal as a late-inning option, yes please.