Rick

Helling

Helling was up to 89 M.P.H. on the radar gun, and struck out five batters in six innings of work. However, he did it while Seth Greisinger was mowing down hitters at the major league level as the Twins’ fifth starter. Helling is about ready, but Greisinger’s performance may have bought him another start before Minnesota has to make a decision about what to do with Helling.

Helling could be in line for two starts, meaning Seth Greisinger will pitch next Saturday in Oakland.

The Twins are being cautious as he regains velocity. He could pitch in another extended spring training game on Thursday, and remains on track to return in early May.

If he had pitched well, it might have been Helling’s final rehab start. As is, GM Terry Ryan said he was waiting to hear staff reports on Helling before determining if he’s ready to help.

This one is far from decided. Brad Thomas, Carlos Pulido, J.D. Durbin and Grant Balfour, if healthy, are the other candidates.

The Orioles have an open date Monday. ''I don’t even want to talk about that,’' manager Mike Hargrove said when asked about Helling. The manager was overruled this week when he wanted to remove Helling from the rotation before he got ripped by the Devil Rays.

Helling, who was once a Ranger starter many moons ago, will have to improve his velocity to get Texas to bite.

The 33-year-old had a 9.00 ERA in six games at Triple-A Oklahoma. It’s possible he could attempt a comeback at a later date.

Helling might want to call it a season and attempt a comeback next year. He had a 9.00 ERA in six starts for Oklahoma.

The decision is up to Helling if he wants to remain in the Twins’ organization. Minnesota has been pleased with his progress in his three rehab starts in Double-A New Britain, but they have been even more pleased with Seth Greisinger (1-1 3.48 ERA) in the fifth starters’ role. At the moment there is no room for Helling on the Twins’ roster.