The Baltimore Orioles received encouraging news Saturday after testing revealed closer Ryan Helsley's injured elbow does not include a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Manager Craig Albernaz said Helsley has inflammation around the UCL, but the ligament remains intact, allowing the two-time All-Star to begin a rehabilitation program with hopes of returning later this season.
Helsley had been facing the possibility of a much more serious injury after landing on the injured list with right elbow discomfort. Avoiding a torn UCL means surgery is not currently part of the plan, giving Baltimore optimism that one of its late-inning arms could rejoin the bullpen during the second half.
The update is significant for an Orioles team looking to stabilize its relief corps. Helsley has recorded eight saves with a 4.11 ERA and 21 strikeouts over 17 appearances this season, serving as one of Baltimore's primary high-leverage options before the injury.
While Helsley's outlook improved, the Orioles also received less encouraging news regarding left-hander Keegan Akin. Albernaz said Akin will meet with elbow specialist Dr. Keith Meister on Tuesday to determine whether he needs UCL surgery.
The contrasting injury updates leave Baltimore with reasons for both optimism and concern entering the All-Star break. Keeping a two-time All-Star like Helsley on a rehab path rather than preparing for season-ending surgery is a positive development for a bullpen that has dealt with multiple injuries.
Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
Baltimore enters Saturday with a 44-51 record, sitting fifth in the American League East. Although the Orioles remain 12.5 games behind the division-leading Tampa Bay Rays, a healthy return from Helsley later this season could provide an important boost as the club looks to improve its standing after the break.
The Orioles will continue monitoring Helsley's recovery over the coming weeks, but Saturday's medical update represents the best possible outcome after concerns about a potential UCL tear.
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