Here’s a bold statement: Tyler O’Neill’s decision to stay with the Baltimore Orioles for the 2026 and 2027 seasons might just be the turning point the team needs. But here’s where it gets controversial—is this a smart move for a player coming off an injury-plagued season, or a risky bet on a comeback that may never fully materialize? Let’s dive in.
As expected, O’Neill has opted into the final two years of his contract with the Orioles, a move confirmed by MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand on Monday. This decision comes after a challenging 2025 season where injuries sidelined the 30-year-old outfielder for much of the year. From neck inflammation to shoulder and wrist issues, O’Neill was limited to just 54 games, batting a modest .199 with nine home runs and a .684 OPS. And this is the part most people miss—despite these setbacks, the Orioles are doubling down on his potential, banking on a return to his 2024 form with the Red Sox, where he smashed 31 homers and posted an .847 OPS.
Orioles GM Mike Elias seems confident in O’Neill’s ability to bounce back. At his end-of-season press conference, Elias emphasized, ‘The talent is there… the power, the swing, the way he moves in the outfield—that player is in there.’ But the question remains: Can O’Neill stay healthy long enough to deliver? His injury history is a red flag, yet the Orioles are willing to take the gamble, believing he could be a game-changer when fully fit.
Meanwhile, another familiar face will return to Baltimore next season. Left-hander Dietrich Enns, who joined the Orioles mid-season in a trade with the Tigers, has signed a one-year deal with a 2027 team option. After posting a solid 3.14 ERA in 17 games, Enns will likely compete for a bullpen spot during Spring Training. This move provides the Orioles with flexibility and a reliable arm for the upcoming seasons.
Here’s the controversial part: While O’Neill and Enns are staying, utility man Jorge Mateo is likely on his way out. The Orioles are expected to decline Mateo’s $5.5 million team option for 2026, marking the end of his five-year stint in Baltimore. Despite his speed—95 stolen bases over the past four seasons—Mateo’s offensive struggles (.218 average, .626 OPS) and injury issues have made him expendable. Is this a fair call, or are the Orioles letting go of a player who could still contribute? Let us know in the comments.
As the Orioles reshape their roster, O’Neill’s decision to stay stands out as a pivotal moment. Will it pay off, or will injuries continue to derail his potential? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—the 2026 season in Baltimore just got a lot more interesting. What’s your take? Is O’Neill’s return a stroke of genius or a risky gamble?
