Could a star reliever become a dominant starter? That's the bold move the Detroit Tigers are considering with free-agent pitcher Ryan Helsley, according to sources. While Helsley has been a lights-out closer, leading the majors with 49 saves in 2024, the Tigers see potential in him as a starter, a role he hasn't filled since his Triple-A days with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2019. But here's where it gets intriguing: Helsley's transition wouldn't be unprecedented. Relievers like Seth Lugo, Michael King, and Clay Holmes have successfully made the switch in recent years, proving it's not just a pipe dream.
At 31, Helsley would need to diversify his pitch arsenal to thrive as a starter. Last season, he relied heavily on sliders and four-seam fastballs with the Cardinals and New York Mets, but he’s shown adaptability by adding a cutter in the spring and already possesses a curveball. This raises a controversial question: Can a pitcher who’s dominated in short bursts truly excel over multiple innings? It’s a debate that divides baseball minds, and Helsley’s case could be a fascinating test.
The closer market remains crowded, with names like Edwin Díaz, Devin Williams, and Kenley Jansen still available. However, the pool of quality starting pitchers is far shallower. If Helsley is open to the change, it could significantly boost his value and open up new opportunities. For the Tigers, this move makes strategic sense. Their rotation is anchored by Tarik Skubal, the back-to-back AL Cy Young winner, but depth is a concern. While Skubal isn’t on the trade block, the Tigers need additional starters to compete. Jack Flaherty is returning, and Casey Mize and Troy Melton are in the mix, but injuries to Reese Olson and Jackson Jobe leave gaps. Helsley could be the solution.
However, his recent struggles can’t be ignored. After being traded to the Mets for three minor-league pitchers, Helsley battled pitch-tipping issues, posting a 7.20 ERA and a .933 opponents’ OPS in 20 innings—well above his career averages. Is this a temporary setback or a sign of deeper issues? That’s a question teams will grapple with.
Originally drafted as a starter by the Cardinals in 2015, Helsley has the foundation for this transition. Of his 87 minor-league appearances, only 18 were in relief. The Cardinals shifted him to the bullpen when he reached the majors in 2019, but his starting roots remain.
And this is the part most people miss: Helsley’s potential as a starter isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about redefining his career trajectory. If he succeeds, he could become a high-value asset in a market desperate for reliable starters. But if he falters, it could raise questions about the viability of such transitions.
What do you think? Is Ryan Helsley’s move to the starting rotation a smart gamble, or is he better off sticking to the bullpen? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark heated opinions!
