The Baltimore Orioles are making a bold move to bolster their roster for the 2026 season! Sources reveal that the team has reached an agreement with Ryan Helsley, a seasoned reliever with an impressive track record.
The Orioles have reportedly signed the 31-year-old right-hander to a 2-year, $28 million deal, with an opt-out option after the first year. This move comes as a surprise to some, as Helsley has been a standout reliever in the league. And here's where it gets intriguing: the Orioles are bringing him in to fill the void left by their injured closer, Félix Bautista.
Helsley, a two-time All-Star, boasts a career ERA of 2.96 and an impressive 105 saves over 297 relief appearances. His accolades include winning the Trevor Hoffman Award in 2024 as the National League's top reliever, and he led the MLB in saves that year with 49. But there's a twist: despite his success as a closer, there was recent speculation about Helsley transitioning to a starter role.
And this is the part most fans are curious about: how will he fare in Baltimore? The Orioles have historically favored a designated closer, and Helsley's experience and success in high-pressure situations make him a perfect fit. However, his recent stint with the Mets as a setup man saw his ERA rise to 7.20, which might raise some concerns. But Helsley addressed pitch-tipping issues and finished strong, leaving the Mets with a 3.00 ERA and 21 saves.
The Orioles' front office, led by Mike Elias, is taking a proactive approach this offseason after a disappointing 2025 campaign. They've already made significant moves, and Helsley's signing is a clear indication of their commitment to improving the team. But the question remains: will Helsley be the missing piece to propel the Orioles back into contention?
As the Orioles continue to reshape their roster, the focus now shifts to starting pitching. With multiple spots to fill, the team is expected to make more moves to strengthen their rotation. And this is where the controversy might arise: should the Orioles have prioritized starting pitching over a closer? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Is Helsley the right man to lead the Orioles' bullpen, or is there another strategy the team should have pursued?
