Helsley entered 2024 with a tentative grasp on the closer role in St. Louis, but the hard-throwing righty led the majors with 49 saves, setting the Cardinals franchise record for a single season. Prior to the campaign, he had yet to achieve a 20-save season and had trouble staying healthy, but Helsley rewarded drafters who exhibited a higher risk tolerance. In fact, he did not miss any time, establishing new career highs in games played (65) and innings pitched (66.1). Helsey's 89.1 percent team save share was the second-highest mark among closers. The injury risk remains for someone who throws as hard as Helsley does -- he averaged 99.6 mph on his fastball (fifth among relievers) -- but the 30-year-old still warrants a pick among the top-10 closers for 2025. Just keep in mind this is Helsley's final year of salary arbitration before he becomes a free agent. If the Cardinals aren't competitive in 2025, he'll be a likely trade candidate. Read Past Outlooks