Helsley’s move from NL elite closer to shaky Mets setup man has produced 10 earned runs in 8 2/3 innings since the July 31 deadline. The Mets back him publicly, but late-inning work is critical with the rotation under pressure in a tight Wild Card race.

Rest and usage data hint at a small-sample puzzle: zero days rest 4.44 ERA, one day 2.27, two days 2.50. Mets stress execution and mechanics over rest, while Brazobán’s clean imaging and Winker/Siri rehab add options as Nimmo fuels late-inning offense.