ARLINGTON, Texas — The Cardinals' lone representative at this year's All-Star Game has elected to be a spectator and preserve his health and begin his readiness for the season's second half.
After talking with Cardinals coaches, trainers, and the National League staff at the annual showcase of the game's best, closer Ryan Helsley has decided it's best for him and his second-half availability not to pitch in the game. He told the Post-Dispatch of his decision during the media availability Monday afternoon at Globe Life Field, site of the 94th Midsummer Classic.
"As active as I’ve been for me it’s going to be trying to be healthy, take the four days," Helsley said. "I’ve been really busy the first half. I want to pitch but I think the smart thing is to take a few days."
Helsley set a Cardinals record with 32 saves before the All-Star break.
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He went 31 consecutive save opportunities between blow saves this season, and a hallmark of his first-half excellence has been his availability and keen awareness of when to push and when to take a break. Helsley had a save this past weekend in the Cardinals' doubleheader sweep of the Cubs, and on the club's most recent road trip he had his first two-inning appearance of the season.
Helsley leads the majors with 32 saves and his 39 games finished are the most in the National League.
The right-hander has 48 strikeouts in 42 innings, and that is already more than he pitched last season and less than 15 shy of how many innings he pitched in 2023.
Selected by Major League Baseball to represent the Cardinals, Helsley earned his second All-Star invite. It happens at the ballpark closest to where he grew up in Oklahoma. Almost a dozen members of his family made the drive to Arlington from Oklahoma to see the game, and Helsley said that he is looking forward to dinner with family Monday night, but not before watching the Home Run Derby.
"The little kid in me is excited for that," he said.
Shortly after Helsley disclosed that he would not pitch in the All-Star Game, MLB replaced him on the active roster.
Helsley's choice opened a spot for Washington reliever Kyle Finnegan.
Cardinals see versatile fielder with a knack for getting on base.