Ryan Helsley Set To Begin Rehab Assignment, sign Tromp to minor league deal
Ryan Helsley Set To Begin Rehab Assignment
Orioles closer Ryan Helsley appears ready for the next step in his recovery from right elbow inflammation. Multiple reports indicate Helsley was expected to begin a minor league rehab assignment this week after successfully completing bullpen sessions and progressing through his throwing program. MLB’s injury tracker noted he could start a rehab assignment during the week of June 8, while other reports pointed specifically to a Monday start.
The right-hander landed on the injured list on May 1 with elbow inflammation after a strong start to his Orioles career. Before the injury, Helsley had converted all of his save opportunities and posted a 2.53 ERA with 15 strikeouts in 10.2 innings.
Why This Matters
Baltimore’s bullpen has been stretched without both Helsley and Félix Bautista available for much of the season. The Orioles have pieced together saves with a committee approach, but Helsley’s return would immediately give manager Craig Albernaz a proven ninth-inning option.
If the rehab assignment goes smoothly with the Norfolk Tides, Helsley could realistically be back in Baltimore by the middle of next week. The Orioles have repeatedly targeted a mid-June return date.
What To Watch At Norfolk
The Orioles will likely focus on:
- Fastball velocity
- Command of his slider
- Recovery between appearances
- Back-to-back outing availability
Results matter less than health. If Helsley is sitting 97-99 mph and bouncing back well after outings, Baltimore could activate him quickly.
Orioles Sign Chadwick Tromp To Minor League Deal
The Orioles also added veteran catcher Chadwick Tromp on a minor league contract.
Tromp is a familiar name around the organization. The veteran catcher has major league experience with the Giants, Braves, and Orioles and has appeared in more than 60 MLB games over parts of six seasons. He owns a career .224 batting average with five home runs and 22 RBIs in the majors.
Why Baltimore Made The Move
This appears to be a depth signing.
The organization has dealt with multiple injuries behind the plate this season, and Triple-A Norfolk’s catching depth has been tested. Tromp gives the Orioles:
- A veteran receiver
- Strong defensive reputation
- Emergency major league depth
- Someone who can mentor younger pitchers at Norfolk
The move also gives Baltimore protection if additional injuries occur to catchers at either the major league or minor league levels.
Potential Impact
Don’t expect Tromp to immediately reach Baltimore unless another injury occurs. The more likely scenario is:
- Tromp reports to Norfolk.
- Shares catching duties with the Tides.
- Serves as the first call-up if the Orioles need a defensive-minded veteran catcher.
Orioles Outlook
The bigger news is unquestionably Helsley.
Baltimore’s bullpen has lacked a true lockdown closer since his injury, and getting him back would strengthen one of the club’s biggest weaknesses entering the second half of the season. A successful rehab stint with Norfolk could make Helsley one of the most impactful “trade-deadline additions” the Orioles make without actually making a trade.
