Orioles Bolster Bullpen, Sign Ryan Helsley to Two-Year Deal

The Baltimore Orioles have moved decisively to stabilize their bullpen for the 2026 season. With closer Felix Bautista expected to miss much, if not all, of the upcoming campaign, the team reached a deal with veteran reliever Ryan Helsley on Saturday. Reports indicate the contract is for two years, includes a $28 million total value, and carries an opt-out option after the first season.

Helsley, 31, spent the 2025 season split between the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Mets. While he excelled in St. Louis, his tenure in New York was notably difficult, prompting questions about his consistency at the major league level. Nevertheless, Helsley has shown he can succeed, posting a career 2.96 ERA since 2019.

The move signals Baltimore’s intent to reinforce its late-inning pitching after a 2025 season that fell short of expectations. Entering the year with high hopes, the Orioles finished 75-87, landing at the bottom of the American League East. Strengthening the bullpen is viewed as a critical step toward avoiding a repeat performance.

With Helsley expected to assume a key role, the Orioles hope their relief corps can provide the stability necessary to compete in a challenging division. The signing is part of a broader effort to return Baltimore to playoff contention as quickly as possible.

1. Helsley’s Career and Potential Impact

Ryan Helsley has established himself as a reliable bullpen arm over the past several seasons. During his time in St. Louis, he emerged as a dependable late-inning option, demonstrating an ability to manage high-pressure situations and record strikeouts at crucial moments. His stint with the Mets in 2025, however, was less successful, with inconsistent performances highlighting the volatility that can affect even experienced relievers. Despite that setback, Helsley remains confident in his ability to rebound and contribute meaningfully to the Orioles. Baltimore’s pitching staff stands to benefit from Helsley’s versatility. His experience allows him to handle a range of late-inning scenarios, from setup roles to closing opportunities, making him an immediate upgrade amid Bautista’s absence. His proven ERA and prior success suggest that, if he returns to form, Helsley could anchor a bullpen that has been a weak point for the team. For a franchise looking to climb back into playoff contention, that kind of impact is significant.

2. Bullpen Stability and Orioles’ Outlook

Bullpen stability will be pivotal to Baltimore’s 2026 aspirations. Following a 75-87 record in 2025, the Orioles need consistent late-inning pitching to keep games close in the competitive AL East. Helsley’s addition provides a bridge toward that goal. Bautista’s expected absence leaves a gap at closer, but Helsley offers a proven arm that can fill high-leverage situations. The Orioles’ front office has clearly prioritized shoring up the bullpen as a first step in their offseason strategy. Beyond Helsley, Baltimore’s roster moves indicate a broader push for competitiveness. The team recently acquired outfielder Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels, signaling intent to address multiple areas of need. Additional moves are likely as the Orioles continue to adjust their roster for a rebound season. The combination of strategic acquisitions and a strengthened bullpen could help the Orioles avoid a repeat of last year’s struggles. If Helsley returns to his career form, he may play a central role in Baltimore’s push to reclaim relevance in the division.

3. Looking Ahead

Baltimore’s offseason is still unfolding, with Helsley’s signing representing the first major bullpen acquisition. The team’s willingness to invest in proven relief talent underscores its desire to compete immediately rather than rebuild incrementally. The 2026 season will test whether Helsley and the reconfigured bullpen can deliver the stability needed in high-pressure situations. Success in that area could be the difference between a middle-of-the-pack finish and a return to playoff contention. As the Orioles continue to explore trades and free-agent signings, fans can expect additional moves aimed at strengthening both offense and defense. The combination of Helsley’s veteran presence and other potential roster upgrades provides optimism for a franchise eager to change its fortunes. *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(–header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir=“auto” tabindex="-1" data-turn-id=“request-WEB:a7e12c9d-9a18-4b8b-8ea2-3585add40546-17” data-testid=“conversation-turn-10” data-scroll-anchor=“true” data-turn=“assistant”>

Helsley’s presence also offers a mentorship opportunity for younger pitchers in the Orioles’ bullpen, giving them a model for handling late-inning pressure and contributing to the team’s long-term pitching development.