Baltimore Orioles Strengthen Bullpen with Ryan Helsley

The Baltimore Orioles have bolstered their bullpen by signing closer Ryan Helsley to a two-year, $28 million deal, with a player option for the second year, according to various reports.

At 31, Helsley attracted considerable attention during the trade deadline, even though he had a rocky stint with the New York Mets. He boasts one of the fastest fastballs in the game, often clocking in at 160 miles per hour.

During his time with the Mets, Helsley struggled, finishing with a 7.20 ERA over 22 appearances. He had been demoted from the major league roster. Prior to joining the Mets, he played 36 games for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2025, with a 3-1 record, 3.00 ERA, and 21 saves.

Helsley had a significant presence in the Cardinals’ bullpen for over six years, appearing in 275 games with a 2.67 ERA, 105 saves, and 355 strikeouts across 299.2 innings.

In his new role with the Orioles, Helsley is stepping in as the closer. Felix Bautista, who faced injuries and pitched only nine innings last season, is expected to miss most of the upcoming season due to a torn rotator cuff and labrum in his right shoulder.

After finishing last in the American League East with a record of 77 wins and 87 losses, the Orioles are hoping Helsley’s addition will help turn the team around.

This move follows another recent acquisition, as the Orioles also traded for outfielder Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels earlier this month.