If Baba is no longer in his physical body at Shirdi, is he still present and able to help his devotees?

Yes, you should not doubt his continued presence. Chapter 43 strongly advises against the idea that Baba is gone. It clarifies that although he left his physical form, he became one with Brahman and now fills the entire moving and non-moving world. The text assures us that Shri Sai is beyond death and remains the protector of his devotees' cause. It states that whatever feeling a devotee holds in their mind, they can still experience his influence and help today. He has transcended the physical state to become omnipresent, always keeping his devotees awake and protected.