Orioles Sign Ryan Helsley for $28M; AL Champs Seek Relief Pitcher

UPDATE: The Baltimore Orioles have successfully secured their new closer, Ryan Helsley, in a two-year deal worth $28 million, according to The Athletic. This crucial move comes during the slow Thanksgiving weekend in the Major League Baseball offseason, where teams are actively shaping their rosters.

The 31-year-old right-hander, previously with the St. Louis Cardinals and most recently the New York Mets, was one of the top closers in baseball in 2024, boasting an impressive 2.04 ERA and 79 strikeouts in 66.1 innings. In that season, he successfully converted 49 saves in 53 opportunities. Although Helsley struggled with a 7.20 ERA in 22 appearances for the Mets last season, the Orioles are banking on his prior success as they slot him into the critical closer role.

Meanwhile, the defending American League champions, the Toronto Blue Jays, are still on the hunt for a late-inning pitcher. Following their recent acquisition of starting pitcher Dylan Cease, the Blue Jays are reportedly exploring options for relief help. They had interest in Phil Maton before he signed with the Chicago Cubs and are keeping tabs on free agent Raisel Iglesias, according to SportsNet.

In Philadelphia, the Phillies are expected to retain popular slugger Kyle Schwarber, with MLB.com reporting that the team is prioritizing his return along with free agent catcher J.T. Realmuto. Schwarber had a standout season, hitting .240/.365/.563 with 56 home runs and 132 RBIs, finishing second in NL MVP voting behind Shohei Ohtani.

As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Orioles to see how Helsley performs in his new role and whether the Blue Jays can bolster their bullpen ahead of the upcoming season. Fans will also be eagerly waiting for the Phillies to finalize Schwarber’s future in Philadelphia.

Stay tuned for more updates as these stories develop and unfold in the coming days!