Orioles Sign Tyler O’Neill to Three-Year Deal with Opt-Out Clause

The Baltimore Orioles have reached an agreement with outfielder Tyler O’Neill on a three-year, $49.5 million contract, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The deal, which includes an opt-out opportunity after the 2025 season, marks a significant addition to the Orioles' roster.


O’Neill, who will turn 30 in June, began his walk year with the St. Louis Cardinals before being traded to the Boston Red Sox. Despite a stellar 2021 season in St. Louis that earned him MVP consideration, O’Neill struggled with injuries and performance consistency, leading to back-to-back down seasons. However, he found a regular role with the Red Sox in 2024, delivering a strong performance when healthy. Over 113 games, he posted a .241/.336/.511 slash line with 31 home runs, a 131 wRC+, and an 11.2% walk rate, despite a high 33.6% strikeout rate.

While O’Neill has shown impressive power and patience at the plate, his high strikeout rate and significant platoon splits are concerns. He excelled against left-handed pitchers with a 215 wRC+, but struggled against right-handers, posting a 91 wRC+ and a .208/.290/.403 line. Additionally, his lengthy injury history could impact his long-term value.

​Nevertheless, O’Neill’s fit with the Orioles is promising. Baltimore’s deep position player mix can provide coverage during any of O’Neill’s potential absences and allow for strategic rest days against challenging right-handed pitchers.