Question: What is your opinion on the signing of Ryan Helsley, physical pending? I see a pitcher who was counted on helping the Mets in the playoffs and from what I read he had a lot to do with keeping the Mets out of the playoffs.
He makes the excuse that he was “tipping” his pitches. Does this mean he wasn’t tipping when with the Cardinals and anyway, he’s 31 years old and should have learned that years ago. Is this what $28 million over two years gets a team these days? What’s the chance he doesn’t make it to the All-Star break and is still the closer? From: Robert Austin
Answer: Robert, I’m a lot less skeptical than you are when it comes to this signing. Another skeptic, Wally Henderson, wanted to know why the Orioles didn’t sign “a true closer.”
I think Helsley is a true closer. Helsley led the major leagues in saves in 2024 with 49 and had 21 when he was traded to the Mets in July. He had a rough time in New York, and I’ve also read the reports he was tipping his pitches.
He’ll try to straighten that out with Orioles. I think $28 million for two years is a fair price for an experienced and accomplished closer. Barring injury and poor performance, there’s an excellent chance he’s still the closer by All-Star break.
Question: How about us going after Pete Fairbanks now? A relatively reasonable contract range for a high-leverage guy who can serve as right-handed setup man at a high level, as well as do ninth-inning work as needed. More than a luxury signing … a “we are serious about getting it done” signing. From: Paul Messinger
Answer: Paul, I think the Orioles aren’t done signing relievers, and it wouldn’t surprise me if they signed another accomplished reliever. If Fairbanks isn’t going to command closer money, they could use another set-up guy to go along with Andrew Kittredge and some of the returnees.
Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.