The Baltimore Orioles had some good news to share on Sunday.
The Baltimore Orioles entered Sunday looking to secure a series win against the Boston Red Sox, and they received a much-needed boost before first pitch. Baltimore's bullpen carried a heavy workload over the past week. That workload became even more challenging with closer Ryan Helsley away from the team for personal reasons.
But ahead of the series finale, the Orioles finally got the update they were hoping for. The Baltimore Orioles announced before Sunday’s series finale that right-hander Ryan Helsley has been reinstated from the bereavement/family medical emergency list. Right-hander Albert Suarez was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.
This marks the first time in April that the bullpen has been at full strength. Left-hander Keegan Akin was activated off the injured list on Saturday. Helsley had been away from the club for four days, during which Baltimore relied on other arms to close out games.
Anthony Nunez picked up the team’s most recent save on Wednesday, but the Orioles clearly missed their All-Star closer. Helsley is off to a bounce-back start in 2026 after struggling with the New York Mets in the second half of last season.
In his first year with Baltimore after signing a two-year, $28 million contract this past winter, the 31-year-old has posted a 2.79 ERA, 1.448 WHIP, 15 strikeouts and six saves across 9 2/3 innings in 11 appearances.
He has showcased the peak form that made him a two-time All-Star and the former National League Reliever of the Year during his time with the St. Louis Cardinals. His return is significant for an Orioles team that needs stability at the back end of the bullpen as they continue their push in the AL East. Helsley will be available Sunday as Baltimore looks to take the series at home.
As for Suarez, his designation comes one day after he threw a season-high 59 pitches on Saturday, allowing four unearned runs. The 36-year-old has provided reliable swingman work for the Orioles over the past three seasons, delivering a 3.58 ERA across 158 1/3 innings since debuting with the club in 2024.
This year, he has posted a 3.46 ERA in 13 innings, though he has nearly as many walks as strikeouts. Baltimore will have to decide whether to trade Suarez or place him on outright waivers, and if he clears, he could return to Triple-A Norfolk as depth.
With Helsley officially back, the Orioles regain the most important piece of their bullpen.