Bautista Returns as Helsley Is Shut Down

Félix Bautista's return after 14 months, highlighted by 98.1-mph velocity and a promising splitter, remains Baltimore's principal late-season pitching positive. Ryan Helsley briefly provided a high-velocity closing option before recurring elbow discomfort ended his season, leaving his health, possible 2027 contract decision and Andrew Kittredge's potential club option central to bullpen planning.