Orioles Make a Statement: Ryan Helsley Joins Bullpen on Two-Year Deal

Well, baseball fans, it looks like the Baltimore Orioles aren't waiting around this offseason, are they? Word on the street, confirmed by an AP source, is that they've made a significant move to bolster their bullpen, reportedly agreeing to a two-year deal with veteran reliever Ryan Helsley. This news, coming in on November 29, 2025, has definitely sent a ripple through the league, and for good reason.

Let's be real for a moment: the Orioles' bullpen had its fair share of struggles during the 2025 campaign. There were nights when holding a lead felt like trying to grasp smoke, and that's a tough spot for any contending team to be in. So, the acquisition of Helsley isn't just a simple roster addition; it feels like a genuine declaration of intent to fix a critical weakness and, frankly, to win. They really needed someone, and Helsley certainly fits the bill.

Helsley, coming over from the St. Louis Cardinals, put together a solid 2025 season, showcasing exactly the kind of reliability the Orioles are craving. He pitched in 65 appearances, posting a respectable 4-4 record with a 2.76 ERA, and notched 7 saves. Those aren't mind-blowing numbers in terms of saves, perhaps, but his ERA and his uncanny ability to get outs in high-leverage situations are what truly stand out. He’s a guy you can generally trust with the game on the line.

Throughout his career, Helsley has consistently demonstrated the kind of high-octane stuff that makes hitters uncomfortable. Remember his All-Star season in 2022? That was a testament to his raw talent and command, and while every year is different, that potential is always there. He's known for a blazing fastball that can touch triple digits and a wicked slider that just seems to disappear on batters. He’s not merely a thrower; he’s a pitcher with an arsenal built for late-game pressure, someone who can really shut things down.

This two-year commitment to Helsley also likely sidesteps the arbitration process, providing both the player and the club with some welcome stability. For the Orioles, it means a proven, high-leverage arm is locked in for the foreseeable future, anchoring a bullpen that suddenly looks a whole lot more formidable. It’s a move that should instill confidence not only in the coaching staff but also in the fanbase, who are surely eager for sustained success.

As the offseason unfolds, this signing is a strong indicator of the Orioles' ambition. They're clearly not content to just make the playoffs; they want to make a deep run, and that absolutely requires a lights-out bullpen. Adding Ryan Helsley is a significant step in that direction, turning what was a question mark into a potential strength. It's going to be exciting to see him take the mound in Baltimore, helping to solidify their late innings.