Baltimore Orioles have officially kicked off their offseason with a major statement, signaling their intention to contend aggressively in 2026. With pitching identified as their biggest concern, the front office moved decisively to secure one of baseball’s most proven late-inning arms—delivering what may become one of the most impactful signings of the winter.
Orioles land all-star closer Ryan Helsley in major two-year deal
After weeks of speculation surrounding the Orioles’ pursuit of bullpen help, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that Baltimore has reached a two-year, $28 million agreement with two-time All-Star reliever Ryan Helsley. The deal includes an opt-out after the 2026 season and is pending a physical.
The signing fills a crucial gap for the franchise. With elite closer Felix Bautista not expected to return until at least August 2026, Baltimore Orioles needed a reliable finisher to stabilize the back end of their bullpen. Helsley, who has been among MLB’s top closers for several seasons, offers precisely that.
A proven track record despite a challenging 2025
Before being dealt midseason in July, Helsley spent his entire seven-year major league tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals. Throughout that stretch, he built a reputation as one of baseball’s most dominant relievers, earning two All-Star selections and recording 103 saves between 2022 and 2025. He also topped Major League Baseball with 49 saves in 2024, establishing himself as a premier ninth-inning force.
However, his 2025 campaign was turbulent compared to previous years. Helsley posted a 4.50 ERA in 56 innings, a noticeable dip influenced in part by his transition to the New York Mets, where he was no longer used as their closer. While he logged 21 saves and a 3.00 ERA in 36 innings with St. Louis before the trade, his stint with the Mets proved challenging; he allowed 16 earned runs across 20 innings, struggling to find consistency in a new role.
Despite this, the Orioles see him as a high-upside addition capable of regaining his All-Star form—especially in a bullpen that clearly needs veteran leadership.
Baltimore signals aggression early in the offseason
General Manager Mike Elias has wasted no time reshaping the roster. Baltimore Orioles already acquired Taylor Ward last week, and adding Helsley reinforces the front office’s commitment to fortifying a team poised to remain competitive.
With the rotation still an area of need, the move for Helsley may be just the beginning. But one thing is certain: Baltimore has already made one of the offseason’s biggest splashes, and it directly elevates their championship aspirations.