Orioles Place Ryan Helsley on 15-Day IL
Ryan Helsley Orioles IL elbow inflammation
The Baltimore Orioles placed star closer Ryan Helsley on the 15-day injured list on Friday, May 1, 2026. The official announcement came after the right-handed pitcher was diagnosed with right elbow inflammation. The injury designation is retroactive to Wednesday, April 29. The roster move surprised many fans because Helsley had showed no previous signs of discomfort.
He last pitched on Tuesday, retiring the side in order to lock down a 5-3 victory against the Houston Astros. He secured his seventh save of the year during that appearance. His fastball reached an average of 99.3 miles per hour in the game. This unexpected injury creates a major challenge for the Orioles’ bullpen.
The relief group has already sustained multiple injuries early in the season. To fill the vacant roster spot, the Orioles selected the contract of right-hander Albert Suarez from Triple-A Norfolk. The 31-year-old Helsley signed a two-year, $28 million contract with Baltimore in December. He has delivered excellent results for the team.
He remains perfect in seven save chances this season. He has posted a 2.53 ERA in 12 overall appearances. Over 10 2/3 innings, he has struck out 15 batters and walked seven. This new elbow issue raises serious concerns because of his past health history. Helsley previously missed nearly three months in 2023 due to a forearm strain while playing for St. Louis. The Orioles must now adjust their late-inning pitching strategy.
Manager Craig Albernaz will likely evaluate a closer-by-committee approach. High-leverage relievers such as Yennier Cano, Andrew Kittredge, and Keegan Akin are expected to absorb ninth-inning opportunities. The addition of Suarez brings the team’s 40-man roster to 39 players. The club aims to stay competitive in the division while their bullpen leaders recover. More coverage on the roster moves can be found at MLB Trade Rumors and Sportsnet.
