Orioles Place Helsley on 15-Day IL with Elbow Inflammation

Baltimore Orioles closer Ryan Helsley landed on the 15-day injured list Friday with right elbow inflammation, retroactive to Wednesday, dealing a blow to the team's bullpen ahead of its series opener against the New York Yankees.

The 31-year-old right-hander, who signed a two-year, $28 million contract with Baltimore in December, had converted all seven save opportunities this season. In 12 appearances totaling 10 2/3 innings, Helsley posted a 2.53 ERA with 15 strikeouts and seven walks. He last pitched Tuesday against the Houston Astros, tossing a scoreless ninth inning for a save in a 5-3 victory, with his fastball averaging 99.3 mph.

To fill the roster spot, the Orioles selected the contract of right-hander Albert Suárez from Triple-A Norfolk. Suárez, 36, had appeared in five games earlier this season for Baltimore, allowing three earned runs over 13 innings before being designated for assignment. The team also recalled left-hander Cade Povich from Norfolk to start Friday's game and optioned right-hander Cameron Foster to the affiliates.

Helsley stepped into the closer role after Felix Bautista underwent shoulder surgery last August, a procedure that could sideline the...