The Los Angeles Dodgers, currently boasting 34 wins, are regaining their rhythm despite significant challenges in maintaining the health of their pitching staff. This season has seen numerous starters and bullpen arms sidelined due to injuries, complicating their pursuit of a third consecutive World Series title – a goal that remains well within reach.
One of the initial major setbacks for their bullpen this season was the injury to Edwin Díaz. MLB.com’s Owen Perkins reported that Díaz is scheduled to undergo surgery at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic to address loose bodies in his elbow. He has been placed on the injured list, and a timeline for his return is uncertain.
While Los Angeles features one of Major League Baseball’s most potent offenses, its effectiveness can be limited if the pitching staff isn’t consistently healthy. Given the ongoing accrual of bullpen injuries, acquiring Ryan Helsley from the Baltimore Orioles emerges as a strategic move.
SI’s Jackson Roberts noted, “The two-time defending World Series champions will be in read-and-react mode at this year’s deadline. If injuries strike any position in particular, they’ll make sure they stabilize. Pitching seems like a logical target here as well, but right now, the bullpen’s needs outweigh the rotation’s.”
Helsley, a two-time All-Star and former Reliever of the Year, has a proven track record of bullpen dominance. However, he has been out since early May due to elbow inflammation. ESPN reported, “The Baltimore Orioles put Ryan Helsley on the 15-day injured list Friday because of right elbow inflammation and are optimistic their closer will not miss significant time.” The team’s trainer, Albernaz, confirmed that testing yielded clean results and Helsley is receiving anti-inflammatory medication; he is the 12th Orioles player to be added to the injured list.
Bringing Helsley to the Dodgers would represent a significant strategic enhancement. The prospect of pairing him with Díaz would create an elite late-inning relief tandem once both are healthy. Furthermore, with Tanner Scott potentially handling seventh-inning duties, the Dodgers could form a formidable three-pronged bullpen force.
Helsley’s current contract with Baltimore is valued at $28 million, a figure well within the Dodgers’ financial capabilities. A bullpen featuring the combined force of Díaz and Helsley would be a nightmare for opposing hitters, as both relievers possess elite velocity and dominant fastballs capable of overpowering teams.
