Ryan Helsley injury concerns returned Wednesday after the Orioles closer felt elbow discomfort while warming up against Chicago. He never entered Baltimore’s 6-1 victory, as noted by the Baltimore Chronicle editorial team.
Manager Craig Albernaz said the bullpen called during Blaze Alexander’s ninth-inning at-bat. Helsley immediately stopped throwing and began receiving medical evaluation.
What happened to Ryan Helsley?
Helsley prepared to pitch the ninth despite Baltimore holding a five-run lead. The Orioles wanted their closer to work after several days without an appearance.
The MASN broadcast showed Helsley rubbing his right forearm and flexing his hand. He later sat down while Andrew Kittredge began emergency warmups.
The sequence developed quickly:
- Helsley started warming before the ninth inning.
- He reported discomfort with one out in the previous frame.
- Baltimore contacted the dugout through the bullpen phone.
- Kittredge replaced him and completed the 6-1 victory.
Kittredge had not appeared since Saturday against Washington. The brief delay allowed the veteran right-hander enough time to prepare safely.
Orioles await medical evaluation
Albernaz said Helsley was examined immediately after reporting the problem. The club expects more information within several days.
| Key detail | Confirmed information |
|---|---|
| Player | Ryan Helsley |
| Reported issue | Right elbow discomfort |
| Game | Orioles 6-1 White Sox |
| Replacement | Andrew Kittredge |
| Current status | Under evaluation |
The concern carries additional weight because Helsley recently missed time with right elbow inflammation. Baltimore reinstated him from the injured list on June 16.
Any renewed absence would weaken an Orioles bullpen already dealing with injuries. Reliever Keegan Akin was also placed on the injured list with elbow soreness.
Dean Kremer returns as another injury concern emerges
The incident overshadowed an encouraging return from Dean Kremer. The starter allowed one run across six innings after spending roughly 10 weeks on the injured list.
Baltimore improved to 40-48 and avoided a sweep by Chicago. However, Helsley’s elbow status could become more significant than the result itself.
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