Ryan Helsley and the Baltimore Orioles have reportedly finalized a two-year deal, as reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Katie Wu from The Athletic revealed that the contract is valued at $28 million and includes an opt-out option for Helsley after the 2026 MLB season.
Helsley, aged 31, recorded 21 saves last year while playing with both the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets. However, all his saves were achieved with the Cardinals before he was traded to the Mets in July. In New York, Edwin Diaz maintained the closer role, pitching 20 innings over 22 games in relief.
Since being selected by the Cardinals in the fifth round of the 2015 draft out of Northeastern State, Helsley has pitched for seven seasons. Orioles president of team operations Mike Elias, speaking at the GM meeting in Las Vegas earlier this month, emphasized that a relief pitcher with closing experience is a top priority for the offseason. With Felix Bautista out until late summer following right shoulder surgery, the closer position is open.
Elias has also been focusing on acquiring veteran hitters, recently trading pitcher Grayson Rodriguez to the Los Angeles Angels for Taylor Ward. The next priority is bolstering the starting rotation. “My goal is to see if we can add players that fit that demographic,” Elias stated. “That will be Plan A for our rotation.”
The Orioles ended the 2025 season last in the American League East with a 75-87 record, missing the playoffs for the first time in three years. Despite the disappointing year, ownership plans to take a cautious approach this winter, hoping their investments will lead to playoff success in the near future.
“This team gives us the ability to invest,” Elias said. “We will explore the market and do what we can to improve the team, whether through free agency or trades. We intend to be buyers this season.”
Fan Take: This signing highlights the Orioles’ commitment to strengthening their bullpen, a crucial component for any championship contender. For baseball fans, Helsley’s addition signals a promising strategic move that could reshape the team’s late-game dynamics and boost excitement for the upcoming seasons.
