The Tigers and Blue Jays are considering Ryan Helsley, a struggling former closer, for a starting role amid a weak free-agent pitching market.

The Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays are among teams interested in Ryan Helsley, a former All-Star closer, with the Tigers exploring a move to convert him into a starting pitcher. Helsley, who posted a 4.50 ERA and 4.14 FIP in 2025 after a dominant 2024 season with 49 saves, has no major league starting experience and relies heavily on his four-seamer and slider. Despite declining performance, his past success and availability in a thin free-agent market for starters have drawn interest. Teams are considering unconventional moves due to limited top-tier rotation options, making Helsley a potential low-cost gamble for depth.