Mets bolster bullpen with trades for Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley

The New York Mets significantly reshaped the back end of their bullpen Wednesday, acquiring right-handed relievers Tyler Rogers from the San Francisco Giants and Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals in separate trades. The moves come as part of an aggressive push by Mets leadership to contend for the franchise’s first World Series title since 1986.

Rogers was dealt to New York in exchange for right-handers José Buttó and Blade Tidwell, along with outfield prospect Drew Gilbert. A 34-year-old submarine-style pitcher, Rogers has posted a stellar 1.80 ERA over 50 innings this season, tying for the MLB lead with 53 appearances. His ability to neutralize both right- and left-handed hitters offers crucial flexibility to Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, who praised Rogers’ consistency and durability.



Hours after that deal, the Mets acquired two-time All-Star Helsley from the Cardinals in exchange for three minor leaguers: infielder Jesus Baez and right-handers Nate Dohm and Frank Elissalt. Helsley, 31, is coming off a league-best 49-save campaign in 2024 and owns a 3.00 ERA with 21 saves this season. He gives the Mets a powerful late-inning weapon to complement All-Star closer Edwin Díaz.


The acquisitions follow the Mets' trade for left-handed reliever Gregory Soto just five days earlier, signaling a full bullpen overhaul. Despite the cost - six players, including promising arms and a top-30 prospect in Gilbert - the Mets are betting big on this season. Rogers and Helsley are both set to become free agents after 2025.

While parting with versatile arms like Buttó and former first-rounder Tidwell was difficult, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged the business side of the game.

"We got better as a team," he said, emphasizing the importance of adding experienced, dependable relievers for the playoff push. The Mets currently lead the NL East by half a game over the Phillies.