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Mets, Ryan Helsley Confirm Pitch‑Tipping Flaw as Reliever Moves to Lower-Leverage Role

Coaches traced his slump to a set-position arm tick, prompting targeted mechanical retraining.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - AUGUST 22: Ryan Helsley #56 of the New York Mets celebrates with catcher Hayden Senger #30 of the New York Mets after their 12-7 win over the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on August 22, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.
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Aug 1, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Ryan Helsley (56) follows through on a pitch against the San Francisco Giants during the ninth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Helsley has a 10.38 ERA in 11 outings with New York, with 10 earned runs over his last seven appearances, four blown saves and three losses.
  • The giveaway is an arm-position change when he comes set that differs on fastballs versus sliders, which coaches and Helsley say hitters picked up.
  • Philadelphia batters recently showed sharp swings on heaters and laid off sliders, reinforcing the staff’s conclusion that pitches were being tipped.
  • He is working between games on catch-play routines to build new muscle memory, acknowledging that velocity alone won’t work if pitch type is telegraphed.
  • Manager Carlos Mendoza is seeking lower-leverage spots while the team expects a return to late-inning work if the fix holds, and closer Edwin Díaz voiced public support.