The Baltimore Orioles' Offseason Moves: A Tale of Opt-Ins and Opt-Outs
In a move that has kept the baseball world buzzing, Tyler O'Neill has decided to stay put with the Orioles for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. But here's where it gets interesting...
O'Neill, the Orioles' prized outfielder, has chosen to exercise his contract option, sticking with the team for the next two years. This decision comes as a relief to the Orioles' front office, especially after a challenging 2025 campaign riddled with injuries.
The 30-year-old's journey with the Orioles began last December when he signed a three-year, $49.5 million deal, marking a significant milestone for the team's baseball operations under Mike Elias. However, the contract included an opt-out clause, allowing O'Neill to explore free agency after the first season.
Despite the allure of free agency, O'Neill's decision to stay reflects his belief in the Orioles' potential. His 2025 season was marred by injuries, including neck inflammation, a left shoulder impingement, and right wrist inflammation, limiting him to just 54 games. But the Orioles remain optimistic, drawing inspiration from O'Neill's strong performance with the Red Sox in 2024, where he smashed 31 homers and posted an impressive .847 OPS.
"The talent is undeniable," said Elias. "The power, the swing, and his outfield prowess are all there. We believe he can be a key contributor when healthy, and we're excited to see him lead our lineup."
And this is the part most people miss: O'Neill's decision to opt-in is a vote of confidence in the Orioles' vision and his ability to contribute to their success.
But it's not just O'Neill who's returning to Baltimore. Left-hander Dietrich Enns, acquired from the Tigers in July, has also agreed to terms on a one-year contract with a 2027 team option. Enns, a 34-year-old veteran, recorded a solid 3.14 ERA in 17 games for the Orioles last season, and his return adds depth to the bullpen.
However, not all players are sticking around. Utility man Jorge Mateo, a speedy infielder/outfielder, may not be returning to Baltimore. The Orioles are reportedly planning to decline his $5.5 million team option for the 2026 season, making him a free agent. Mateo's injury-plagued past two years and offensive struggles have likely played a role in this decision.
So, as the Orioles prepare for the 2026 season, they're doing so with a mix of optimism and uncertainty. With O'Neill and Enns returning, the team has a solid core, but the departure of Mateo leaves a gap that will need to be filled.
What do you think? Are the Orioles making the right moves? Will O'Neill's decision to stay pay off? And what impact will Mateo's departure have on the team's overall performance? Let's discuss in the comments!
