Breaking News: The Baltimore Orioles have just secured a major win by signing veteran closer Ryan Helsley to a two-year contract! This move promises to bolster their bullpen, but the details are even more interesting. Let's dive in.
On Saturday afternoon, multiple sources confirmed that Helsley, a right-handed pitcher, has inked a deal worth a cool $28 million. The contract also includes a player opt-out clause, meaning Helsley could potentially test the free-agent market again after the 2026 season.
Helsley, at 31 years old, is no stranger to success. He's a two-time National League All-Star (2022, 2024) and even earned a spot on the 2024 All-MLB First Team. Adding to his impressive resume, he was named the NL Reliever of the Year in 2024, a season where he led the league with a staggering 49 saves while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals.
The Orioles desperately needed a reliable arm to close out games. Their current closer, Felix Bautista, is recovering from a long-term injury, making Helsley's arrival even more crucial. Bautista, after returning from Tommy John surgery, pitched in 35 games last season, notching 19 saves with a 2.60 ERA across 34 2/3 innings. Unfortunately, he was sidelined on July 24, 2025, due to right shoulder discomfort and underwent surgery in August to repair a torn rotator cuff and labrum. Bautista is expected to miss a significant portion of the 2026 season, although he did sign a one-year contract extension for the upcoming season for $2.25 million.
Helsley's journey to Baltimore is an interesting one. Drafted by the Cardinals in the fifth round of the 2015 MLB draft, he made his debut for St. Louis in 2019. He quickly rose to prominence, earning the closer's role in 2022. That year, he recorded 19 saves, alongside a stellar 1.25 ERA and a 0.74 WHIP.
He faced a setback in 2023, missing a significant portion of the season due to a right forearm strain. However, he bounced back in a big way, setting a St. Louis franchise record with 49 saves the following season. But here's where it gets controversial... Helsley was traded to the New York Mets on July 30, 2025, where he struggled, posting a 7.20 ERA and losing his role as closer. He didn't earn any saves and blew four opportunities.
For his career, Helsley has a solid track record. Across 297 games (all in relief), he's accumulated 105 saves with a 2.96 ERA. He's struck out 377 batters while walking 132 in 319 2/3 innings.
And this is the part most people miss... This signing could be a game-changer for the Orioles, but will Helsley be able to regain his dominant form? What are your thoughts on this move? Do you think the Orioles made the right call? Share your opinions in the comments below!
