Orioles sign big-throwing reliever to 2-year deal to bolster bullpen: reports

The Baltimore Orioles have reportedly brought some firepower to the back end of their bullpen.

The Orioles signed closer Ryan Helsley to a two-year, $28 million contract, according to multiple reports. The contract reportedly has a player option after the first year of the deal.

Helsley, 31, attracted a lot of interest despite struggling with the New York Mets after being acquired at the trade deadline. The veteran reliever has one of the best fastballs in the game, frequently reaching 100 mph.

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New York Mets reliever Ryan Helsley reacts after being thrown out of a game against the Seattle Mariners during the seventh inning at Citi Field in New York City on August 15, 2025. (Brad Penner/Image Images)

The two-time All-Star had a 7.20 ERA with the Mets in 22 appearances and was demoted from high-leverage positions. Before being acquired by the Mets, Helsley was fine with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2025 with a 3-1 record and a 3.00 ERA in 36 appearances and 21 saves.

Helsley was a mainstay in the Cardinals bullpen for more than six seasons before being traded at the deadline last season. In 275 games, Helsley had a 2.67 ERA and 105 saves, while striking out 355 batters in 299.2 innings.

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New York Mets reliever Ryan Helsley pitches against the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning at Citi Field in New York City on September 12, 2025. (Brad Penner/Image Images)

Helsley will take over as the Orioles’ closer. Felix Bautista, who, when healthy, lasted the ninth inning, suffered a torn rotator cuff and labrum in his right shoulder and is expected to miss most of the 2026 season.

The Orioles finished last in the American League East at 77-87 and are hoping Helsley can be part of the team’s turnaround.

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Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals pitches against the San Diego Padres at Busch Stadium on July 25, 2025 in St. Louis. (Ali Overstreet/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

The signing of Helsley is the second big move the team has made. The Orioles also acquired outfielder Taylor Ward from the Los Angeles Angels in a trade earlier this month.

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