The Baltimore Orioles, fresh off their 2024 postseason appearance, are making strategic moves to strengthen their roster for the 2025 season. One of their latest additions is outfielder Tyler O’Neill, whom they signed to a three-year, $49.5 million contract. The deal includes an opt-out option after the 2025 season, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
O’Neill, who spent the 2024 season with the Boston Red Sox, showcased his power at the plate, hitting 31 home runs while slashing .241/.336/.511. At 29 years old, he brings significant offensive potential to the Orioles’ lineup. His addition provides the team with a reliable everyday player and serves as a contingency plan should they lose Anthony Santander in the near future.
This signing is also a calculated move for O’Neill, as the opt-out clause allows him the flexibility to renegotiate for a larger deal if his performance in 2025 surpasses the annual average value (AAV) of $16.5 million. Offensively, O’Neill’s power and consistent production make him a valuable asset for the Orioles as they look to maintain their competitive edge in the American League.
Defensively, O’Neill brings a notable pedigree as a two-time Gold Glove winner, earning the honors in 2020 and 2021 during his tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals. However, his recent defensive metrics have been less stellar. In 2024, he posted a minus-4 Outs Above Average (OAA), according to Baseball Savant, indicating a decline in his defensive contributions. His last positive OAA season came in 2022 when he managed a plus-one rating. While his defensive prowess may no longer be at its peak, his offensive capabilities more than compensate for this decline, making him a significant upgrade for the Orioles.
For the Red Sox, O’Neill’s departure leaves a gap in both their lineup and defensive alignment, increasing the urgency to secure a high-profile free agent like Juan Soto. With O’Neill no longer an option for a reunion, the pressure mounts for Boston to fill the void his absence creates.
The Orioles’ proactive move not only strengthens their lineup but also puts added competitive pressure on rivals like the Red Sox. As Baltimore looks to build on their postseason success, the addition of O’Neill reflects their commitment to remaining a contender in 2025 and beyond.
