The Baltimore Orioles have addressed one of their most glaring needs heading into 2026, signing All-Star reliever Ryan Helsley to a 2 year deal. The $28M pact will feature an opt-out clause after the first season, allowing the 31 year old to potentially become a free agent after the upcoming campaign once again.
Baltimore was in need of a closer after it was announced that Felix Bautista would undergo shoulder surgery in August. That procedure is expected to sideline the veteran reliever for most, if not all, of 2026.
Helsley dominated during his time in St. Louis, posting a 1.83 ERA with a 12.1K/9 ratio between 2022 and 2024. He led the Majors in saves during the 2024 season, registering 49 en route to his 2nd All-Star game selection.
However, after joining the Mets last year via trade, his numbers took a turn for the worse, giving up 16 earned runs through just 20 innings, while seeing his WHIP balloon to 1.80 and his SO/9 fall below 10 for the first time since 2021. That dip in production is likely what led to a shorter term deal with an out built in after the first season.
If the right hander can get back to his previous form, he’ll likely command big money and term on the open market at the age of 32.
According to reports, at least 15 teams checked in on Hensley’s availability this winter, including the Blue Jays, Tigers, and Cubs. Interestingly, Detroit is believed to have pitched the reliever on the idea of converting to a starting pitcher, which was a less attractive proposition than the one laid out by Baltimore who have a clear opening at the back end of their bullpen.
Helsley will join fellow reliever Andrew Kittredge who the team acquired from Chicago for cash considerations earlier this month, in the high leverage roles for the Orioles.
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