Reliever Ryan Helsley intends to pick up his $14 million player option for the 2027 season with the Baltimore Orioles, according to a person familiar with the decision who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
The right-handed pitcher, who joined Baltimore via trade during the 2026 season, will remain with the Orioles rather than test free agency. Helsley's option was part of a contract structure that gave him the choice to guarantee the final year of his deal.
Helsley has established himself as one of baseball's premier closers, earning multiple All-Star selections and finishing in the top five of Cy Young Award voting during his peak seasons. His decision provides Baltimore with certainty at the back end of their bullpen as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.
The 30-year-old reliever posted strong numbers after arriving in Baltimore, helping solidify a pitching staff that propelled the Orioles into postseason contention. With Helsley locked in, the club can now focus on other roster decisions heading into the offseason.
