As expected, Orioles reliever Ryan Helsley has exercised his $14 million player option for 2027.

Helsley, who pitched in just 17 games due to two lengthy stays on the injured list with right elbow inflammation, signed a one-year, $14 million contract with the Orioles last December with the 2027 option.

He was 0-4 with a 4.11 ERA and saved eight games in nine opportunities.

Helsley and Félix Bautista, who returned from rotator cuff and labrum surgery to pitch two games in September, are expected to be the Orioles’ back-end relievers in 2027.

Notes: Left-handed reliever Keegan Akin, right-handed starter Chris Bassitt, right-handed reliever Andrew Kittredge and left-handed starter Trevor Rogers declared free agency.

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