Tigers signal interest in transforming Ryan Helsley from elite reliever into full-time starter as offseason strategy evolves

That's the message behind the Detroit Tigers, an idea that converting Ryan Helsley from top-flight reliever to full-blown starter might provide a real source of rotation strength this season. The former two time All Star closer has dominated late innings for most of his career, and the Detroit front office envisions his raw tools, including a high velocity fastball and a swing and miss slider, as a starting point for a transition to the rotation.

The move comes at a time when proven starting pitching is scarce. This makes the conversion of high end relievers increasingly appealing for teams looking for rotation depth without overspending on the open market.

Simultaneously, Detroit seems perfectly content with an equation of risk reward that provides them flexibility. Assuming Ryan Helsley transitions smoothly (and still possesses ace upside), the Cardinals lock in an elite starter at a solid price. If the transition struggles, it's still a top-tier bullpen weapon. The dual benefit dovetails nicely into the Tigers evolving pitching philosophy, which has focused on both flexibility and a long term outlook.

Why the Tigers believe Ryan Helsley can succeed as a starter

Detroit likes the fact that many aspects of elite raw velocity and swing-generating ability, often the province of the power reliever, can translate to multi-inning success with the right adjustments, and Andrew Miller and Ryan Helsley are perfect embodiments of that philosophy. His four-seamer consistently reaches the high nineties, and his slider is one of the better chase pitches from a reliever. This is a great combination of features for developing a starter.


It's also a natural reaction from Detroit to its existing rotation situation. Though the reliable arms are plentiful, the long-term depth is a little more murky. Moving a guy like Helsley into the rotation gives the Tigers a unique avenue to beef up their starting corps while maintaining financial and roster flexibility. They're willing to think outside the box with traditional roles in the bullpen and Helsley is a part of that approach.

The challenges of converting Ryan Helsley into a starter

A one-inning king transitioning into sustained multi-inning success is no small change. His work at the Major League level since 2019 has been minimal, and he has been used in short, high-leverage opportunities. That means he needs to work on his endurance, pacing, and establishing a more well-rounded pitch mix.

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