The Baltimore Orioles might once again be without closer Ryan Helsley just weeks after his return.
During today's come-from-behind win over the Chicago White Sox, Helsley began warming up in the ninth inning. However, after just a couple of minutes, he suddenly sat down and Andrew Kittredge began warming up instead. The abrupt change immediately raised concerns about a possible injury.
After the game, manager Craig Albernaz revealed the worst. Helsley is dealing with right elbow discomfort. When asked about his level of concern, Albernaz admitted it was high.
Helsley had just returned from the injured list after missing more than a month with right elbow inflammation. He was activated on June 16 and made five appearances before Wednesday's setback.
His first two outings in his return were rough. Helsley allowed five runs in a combined 1.2 innings. However, the flamethrowing right-hander appeared to be rounding back into form, allowing no earned runs over his next three appearances.
Overall, Helsley has converted eight of nine save opportunities this season. He owns an 0-4 record with a 4.11 ERA across 15.1 innings in 17 appearances.
The Orioles signed the 31-year-old to a two-year, $28 million contract during the offseason to replace Felix Bautista as closer. Bautista underwent right rotator cuff surgery near the end of last season.
It was an interesting signing after Helsley's disastrous second half with the New York Mets. In 20 innings, he went 0-3 with a 7.20 ERA and a -0.9 bWAR.
It became clear during his time in New York that Helsley was tipping his pitches. He spent the offseason correcting the issue, giving Baltimore confidence he could return to the form that earned him National League Reliever of the Year honors in 2024.
While Helsley was sidelined, Baltimore turned to Rico Garcia for save opportunities. Garcia has been indispensable this season, posting a 3-1 record with a 2.52 ERA across 35.2 innings. If Helsley misses time, Albernaz will likely lean on Garcia and Yennier Cano in highest-leverage spots.
Baltimore has battled injuries all season but recently welcomed both Adley Rutschman and Dylan Beavers back from the injured list. It looked like things were finally turning around with a healthier lineup and Helsley back in the bullpen. Now, if the closer is headed back to the injured list, the Orioles will once again need their other stars to step up.
