The Philadelphia Phillies are emerging as strong contenders to challenge the Los Angeles Dodgers for a World Series title this season. However, to truly solidify their chances, they may need to strengthen certain areas—most notably, their bullpen.

As reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Phillies are becoming increasingly uneasy about the performance of reliever Jordan Romano. Once known for his dominant fastball that clocked in at an average of 96.8 mph just two seasons ago, Romano has seen a noticeable drop in velocity, now hovering between 92–94 mph. Additionally, he’s had ongoing trouble controlling the running game.

“The Phillies have become concerned with closer Jordan Romano,” Nightengale noted, offering insight into why the Toronto Blue Jays declined to tender him a contract last offseason. That decision allowed Philadelphia to sign him to a one-year, $8.5 million deal.

If Romano’s struggles persist in key moments, the Phillies may look to upgrade the closer role. One name being floated as a potential target is St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley. The flame-throwing righty, currently in the final year of his contract, is expected to draw significant attention in free agency—potentially landing a deal worth up to $81 million, per Spotrac.

With the Cardinals unlikely to offer Helsley that kind of money to stay, a trade before the deadline could benefit both teams. Philadelphia, after losing Carlos Estévez and Jeff Hoffman to free agency and failing to fill those gaps, would see Helsley as a major upgrade for the late innings.

Though acquiring Helsley would likely come at a steep price, the Phillies may be willing to pay it—especially if it means boosting their bullpen for a deep postseason run.