A recent example of a top closer with similar experience being traded is when the Brewers sent Josh Hader to San Diego. It was done in 2022 with a year and a half remaining before free agency, so more time than Helsley has.
Milwaukee received four players in return for Hader.
– LHR Trevor Rogers left as a free agent two months later.
– RHP Dinelson Lamet was DFAed immediately.
– LHP Robert Gasser made five MLB starts last year. The 25 y/o is the #10 Brewers prospect.
– CF Esteury Ruiz was SD’s 28th ranked prospect and was soon traded again, to the As. Stole a lot of bases before getting hurt. Negative WAR so far for his career.
Pretty clear that the team that got the best player in the trade fared best. But, maybe Mo can get a better take for Helsley… 😉