Wes Helms


Wesley Ray Helms is an American former professional baseball third baseman, first baseman, and outfielder. He is currently the manager of the Charlotte Knights, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. Helms batted and threw right-handed.

Professional career

Helms was drafted by the Atlanta Braves right out of high school in the 10th round of the amateur draft. He made his Major League debut with the Braves in.
On December 16,, he was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for proven reliever Ray King. Helms played with Milwaukee for 3 seasons. He had a successful first season there hitting 23 home runs and collecting 67 RBI. He suffered a knee injury during a rain delay during a game in San Juan, Puerto Rico against the displaced Montreal Expos. After a stint on the disabled list, Helms struggled to regain his form and his playing time. He became the backup third baseman to Russell Branyan.
On November 15,, he agreed to a contract in principle with the Philadelphia Phillies to a two-year contract for approximately 5.5 million dollars, with a club option for a third year. Helms was designated for assignment by the Phillies on April 2,, and on April 5 was traded back to his old club, the Florida Marlins, for cash considerations with the Phillies paying all of Helms's 2008 salary and the Marlins covering Helms's 2009 option or buyout.
In 13 years of major league service, Helms hit for a.256 batting average with 75 home runs and 374 RBI.
On August 13, 2011, he was released by Florida. He signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves on August 17. He was assigned to the Triple-A Gwinnett Braves but was released on September 1.

Coaching career

Helms was named the bench coach for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs of the 2018 season. For the 2019 season, Helms was named bench coach of the Double-A Birmingham Barons. He was named manager of the Triple-A Charlotte Knights for the 2020 season.