The Mets are acquiring hard-throwing closer Ryan Helsley from the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday, a day before the July 31 Major League Baseball deadline, the team announced Wednesday. The Cardinals get back three minor leaguers: shortstop Jesus Baez and right-handed pitchers Nate Dohm and Frank Elissalt.

The New York Mets picked up the All-Star closer on Wednesday ahead of the MLB trade deadline, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan. Reportedly going back to St. Louis are prospects Jesus Baez, Nate Dohm and Frank Elissalt.

The Los Angeles Dodgers may hold a modest four-game lead in the NL West and boast one of the best offenses in baseball, yet their bullpen continues to be a defining factor in their inability to pull away from the pack.