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An abstract, cubist-inspired illustration captures the raw power and movement of a dominant relief pitcher, hinting at the potential for an unexpected star to emerge from the offseason closer market.NYC Today
Baltimore Orioles closer Ryan Helsley has come out of the gate strong in 2026, prompting speculation that he could outperform the high-priced free-agent closers signed by the New York Mets (Devin Williams) and Los Angeles Dodgers (Edwin Díaz) this past offseason. Helsley, who struggled in 2025 but has added a splitter to his arsenal, is off to a 2-for-2 start in save opportunities with a 100.1 mph average fastball velocity.
Why it matters
If Helsley can regain his All-Star form, it could make the Mets and Dodgers regret not pursuing him more aggressively in free agency, as both teams invested heavily in other closers who have had their own recent struggles.
The details
Helsley, who signed a two-year deal with the Orioles in November, is looking to bounce back after a tough 2025 season. His early-season dominance, including a 100.1 mph average fastball velocity, has prompted Orioles teammate Adam Ottavino to suggest the team may have ‘struck gold’ with the signing. Helsley has added a splitter to his repertoire, showing he’s still evolving as a pitcher.
- Helsley is 2-for-2 on save opportunities in the early 2026 season.
- Helsley tallied four strikeouts in 2 1/3 innings of work for the Orioles in the season’s first week.
The players
Ryan Helsley
A 30-year-old relief pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles who is looking to bounce back after a tough 2025 season. Helsley is a two-time All-Star and former NL Reliever of the Year.
Devin Williams
A relief pitcher who signed a lucrative free-agent contract with the New York Mets this past offseason.
Edwin Díaz
A relief pitcher who signed a big-money deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers this past offseason.
Adam Ottavino
A veteran relief pitcher and Helsley’s teammate on the Baltimore Orioles.
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What they’re saying
“Helsley’s velo is already operating at midseason levels. His four-seamer averaged 100.1 mph (nine pitches) in his Opening Day save against the Minnesota Twins, prompting Adam Ottavino to theorize that Baltimore may have ‘struck gold’ with their signing of Helsley to a two-year deal in November.”
— Adam Ottavino, Orioles relief pitcher
What’s next
If Helsley continues his strong start, it could put pressure on the Mets and Dodgers to justify their offseason closer signings, as Helsley looks poised to outperform both Williams and Díaz in 2026.
The takeaway
This early-season performance from Helsley raises questions about whether the Mets and Dodgers overpaid for their high-profile closer signings, as Helsley appears to have regained his All-Star form and could provide better value for the Orioles.
