With weather cutting the postseason short, the South Division champion Palm Beach Cardinals were named co-champions of the Florida State League for the 2017 season, along with the North Division champion Dunedin Blue Jays. Although offense usually steals the show, quality starting pitching was key in Palm Beach’s success.
In 17 games (16 starts) for the Cardinals this season, right-hander Ryan Helsley worked to a 2.78 FIP with 91 strikeouts. Helsley, 22, allowed only three home runs and walked 30 over 93 2⁄3 innings. His impressiveness led to Helsley being named the Florida State League Pitcher of the Year.