Closer Ryan Helsley, who the Los Angeles Dodgers showed interest in at the trade deadline in 2025, signed a two-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday, per ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Helsley, 31, split time with the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Mets last season, moving to Queens at the deadline. He had a strong start to the season, posting a 3.00 ERA through 36 appearances with the Cardinals, but couldn’t maintain his form with the Mets.
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The right-hander made 22 appearances for New York, allowing 16 earned runs through 20 innings pitched. He blew all four of his save opportunities after moving teams.
Prior to his time with the Mets, Helsley had spent his entire MLB career with the Cardinals. He kept a 2.67 ERA through 275 appearances, and logged 105 saves during his time in St. Louis. Helsley led MLB in saves in 2024, logging a career-high 49 while posting a 2.04 ERA.
Helsey received his second All-Star selection that season, with his first coming in 2022. He received Cy Young votes in both seasons.
What Does Helsley’s Contract Mean For the Dodgers?
The Dodgers are in need of a reliable closer this offseason following Tanner Scott’s rough 2025 campaign, though no reports arose of them targeting Helsley in free agency. His late-season implosion likely turned the Dodgers’ attention elsewhere, so they still have plenty of options to pursue.
Who Else Can the Dodgers Sign With Helsley Off the Market?
Plenty of top-quality closers still remain free agents, the most notable of whom are Edwin Diaz and Robert Suarez. The Dodgers have also reportedly shown interest in former Tampa Bay Rays reliever Pete Fairbanks to fill the closing role.
Photo Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
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