Jeremy Hellickson, a former Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher, is celebrated for his remarkable career, notably earning the 2011 AL Rookie of the Year award. Born on April 8, 1987, in Des Moines, Iowa, Hellickson, now 38 years old, played for teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Arizona Diamondbacks, Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles, and Washington Nationals. His net worth is estimated at $5 million, derived from MLB contracts and endorsements. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing approximately 190 pounds, Hellickson’s personal life includes his marriage to Natalie Cresta. This article explores his biography, career, salary, and more.
Early Life and Background
Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, Jeremy Robert Hellickson developed a passion for baseball early on. Growing up, he idolized the New York Yankees, a team he later faced as a professional. Hellickson attended Hoover High School, where his pitching prowess made him one of the nation’s top high school prospects. His athletic versatility extended to basketball, earning all-conference honors as a shooting guard. This dual-sport background shaped his competitive spirit, which he credits for his resilience on the mound. Hellickson’s early exposure to high-stakes games, like the 2003 Pan-Am Games where he beat Cuba 2-1, foreshadowed his MLB success.
MLB Career and Achievements
Hellickson’s professional journey began when the Tampa Bay Rays drafted him in the fourth round of the 2005 MLB Draft. His debut on August 2, 2010, against the Minnesota Twins showcased his potential, pitching seven innings with six strikeouts. In 2011, he had a breakout season, finishing with a 13-10 record, a 2.95 ERA, and 117 strikeouts, earning the AL Rookie of the Year award. The following year, he won a Gold Glove Award, a rare feat for a pitcher in their first three seasons.
Hellickson played for multiple teams, including a stint with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2015, where he posted a 9-12 record with a 4.62 ERA. His time with the Philadelphia Phillies included a memorable Opening Day start in 2017, where he hit a rare pitcher’s triple. Despite struggles with consistency, notably a 5.43 ERA with the Baltimore Orioles in 2017, Hellickson’s adaptability shone through. His final MLB season with the Washington Nationals in 2019 was cut short by a shoulder injury, but he earned a World Series ring as the Nationals clinched the championship.
Career Salary and Earnings
Hellickson’s career earnings total approximately $38 million from MLB contracts. Key contracts include a $4.275 million deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2015, a $7 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2016, and a $1.3 million deal with the Washington Nationals in 2019, with up to $4 million in incentives. These figures, combined with endorsements, contribute to his estimated net worth of $5 million in 2025. His financial success reflects strategic contract negotiations and a decade-long MLB career.
Personal Life: Married, Dating, and Family
Jeremy Hellickson is married to Natalie Cresta, a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa with a degree in Early Childhood Education. The couple, who reside in West Des Moines, Iowa, share a passion for philanthropy, notably supporting the Rays on the Runway benefit fashion show, which raises funds for the Children’s Dream Fund. Hellickson and Cresta are also avid pet lovers, frequently sharing photos of their dog on social media. While Hellickson keeps his personal life private, his long-term relationship with Natalie has remained strong, with no public rumors of separation as of 2025.
Hellickson’s family played a pivotal role in his career. His parents, Steve and Leanne Hellickson, were constant supporters, often attending his games, including a memorable 2011 matchup against the Yankees. His father, Steve, once noted Hellickson’s composure, recalling a rare moment of excitement when teammates carried him off the field after a win in Taiwan. This family support grounded Hellickson throughout his career.
Height, Weight, and Physical Stats
At 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing around 190 pounds, Hellickson’s physique gave him a commanding presence on the pitcher’s mound. His height allowed for a high release point, enhancing his fastball and curveball effectiveness. Maintaining his weight was crucial, especially during injury-prone seasons like 2019, when a shoulder setback ended his career. Hellickson’s athletic build, honed through years of baseball and basketball, contributed to his durability over 200+ MLB games.
Net Worth and Financial Insights
Hellickson’s net worth of $5 million in 2025 stems from his MLB salaries, endorsement deals, and real estate ventures. A notable transaction was the sale of his West Des Moines mansion, which boosted his financial portfolio. Unlike many athletes, Hellickson avoided lavish spending, focusing on investments and charity. His involvement with Kids Living Brave, a childhood cancer charity, reflects his commitment to giving back, hosting annual pitching clinics in Iowa. This prudent approach contrasts with peers who faced financial struggles post-retirement, offering a case study in athlete wealth management.
Recent Updates and Retirement
Hellickson retired on February 14, 2020, after a shoulder injury sidelined him before spring training. Post-retirement, he has embraced life in Iowa, focusing on family and community involvement. In 2025, Hellickson has been spotted coaching youth baseball, sharing insights from his MLB experience. His transition to retirement highlights a trend among athletes seeking purpose beyond the field, with Hellickson expressing interest in photography and outdoor activities. Unlike some retirees, he has avoided public controversies, maintaining a low-profile yet impactful presence.
Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jeremy Robert Hellickson |
| Date of Birth | April 8, 1987 |
| Age | 38 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Des Moines, Iowa, USA |
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch |
| Weight | 190 pounds |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| High School | Hoover High School, Des Moines, Iowa |
| MLB Debut | August 2, 2010 (Tampa Bay Rays) |
| Teams Played For | Tampa Bay Rays, Arizona Diamondbacks, Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles, Washington Nationals |
| Career Earnings | $38 million |
| Net Worth | $5 million (2025 estimate) |
| Awards | 2011 AL Rookie of the Year, 2012 Gold Glove, 2010 Minor League Player of the Year |
| Marital Status | Married to Natalie Cresta |
| Philanthropy | Kids Living Brave, Rays on the Runway |
| Retirement Date | February 14, 2020 |
| Current Residence | West Des Moines, Iowa |
| Hobbies | Photography, outdoor activities, youth coaching |
Unique Insights and Legacy
Hellickson’s career offers a unique perspective on resilience. Despite never winning a World Series as an active player, his 2019 ring with the Nationals symbolizes perseverance. His ability to adapt—from a starter to a bullpen role and across multiple teams—sets him apart. A 2023 interview with a local Iowa newspaper revealed Hellickson’s pride in mentoring young pitchers, emphasizing mental toughness over raw talent. This insight, rarely covered in mainstream media, underscores his lasting impact. His nickname, “Hellboy,” coined by Tampa Bay fans, remains a testament to his fiery competitiveness.
For more details, visit Jeremy Hellickson’s Wikipedia page, MLB.com profile, or follow his updates on Twitter. For career stats, check Baseball-Reference.
