Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Ryan Helsley

How Ryan Helsley built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Ryan Helsley is a professional baseball pitcher currently playing for the St. Louis Cardinals in Major League Baseball (MLB). As a key member of the Cardinals' bullpen, Helsley is known for his high velocity fastball and effectiveness in high-leverage situations, often serving as the team's closer. He has established himself as a dominant force in the later innings, contributing significantly to the Cardinals' success through his ability to secure crucial outs and save games.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2013: Undrafted out of High School

In 2013, Ryan Helsley was undrafted out of high school in the MLB draft, leading him to enroll at Northeastern State University.

2014: MIAA Freshman of the Year

In 2014, as a freshman at Northeastern State University, Ryan Helsley was named the MIAA Freshman of the Year with a 7-4 record and a 4.60 ERA.

2015: Drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals

After his sophomore season, in 2015 Ryan Helsley was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the fifth round of the MLB draft and signed with them.

2015: Professional Debut with Johnson City Cardinals

After signing in 2015, Ryan Helsley made his professional debut with the Johnson City Cardinals, posting a 2.01 ERA.

2016: Midwest League All-Star

In 2016, Ryan Helsley played for the Peoria Chiefs, earning a 10-2 record with a 1.61 ERA and was named a Midwest League All-Star.

2017: Promotion to Springfield Cardinals

In 2017, Ryan Helsley started with the Palm Beach Cardinals, and after a strong performance, was promoted to the Springfield Cardinals in July. He was also named the Florida State League Pitcher of the Year following the season.

2018: Shoulder Fatigue Ends Season

Ryan Helsley began 2018 with Springfield and was promoted to Memphis during the season, however, shoulder fatigue ended his season in June. The Cardinals added Helsley to their 40-man roster after the season.

2019: MLB Debut

In 2019, Ryan Helsley made his Major League Baseball debut for the St. Louis Cardinals.

2019: Major League Call-Up and Debut

In 2019, Ryan Helsley was called up to the major leagues on April 16 and made his debut that night. He was later placed on the injured list on June 13 and recalled again on August 4, spending the remainder of the 2019 regular season in St. Louis' bullpen.

2021: Injuries and Season Shut Down

In 2021, Ryan Helsley appeared in 51 games for the Cardinals before being shut down in mid-August with knee and elbow injuries.

2022: All-Star Selection

In 2022, Ryan Helsley had a breakout season as the Cardinals' closer and was named an All-Star.

2022: All-Star Selection and Immaculate Inning

In 2022, Ryan Helsley was selected to the All-Star Game. On September 16, 2022, he pitched an immaculate inning against the Cincinnati Reds. Helsley finished the 2022 season with 19 saves.