The Baltimore Orioles have reportedly agreed to a three-year, $49.5 million contract with outfielder Tyler O’Neill, according to a source familiar with the deal. The person spoke with The Associated Press on Saturday, requesting anonymity as the agreement is still pending a successful physical.
O’Neill will earn $16.5 million annually for the next three years, with the option to opt out after 2025.
In addition, the Orioles have also reached a one-year, $8.5 million deal with catcher Gary Sánchez, according to another anonymous source. This agreement has not yet been officially confirmed.
O’Neill, 29, batted .241 with 31 home runs and 61 RBIs last season with the Boston Red Sox, marking his first year with the team after six seasons with St. Louis. He is capable of playing both corner outfield positions, which could be important if the Orioles lose switch-hitting slugger Anthony Santander to free agency.
Tyler O’Neill’s ability to bat right-handed is a valuable asset for the Orioles, as the team features several key left-handed hitters, including Gunnar Henderson, Colton Cowser, Jackson Holliday, Heston Kjerstad, and Cedric Mullins.
While O’Neill brings power to the lineup, his health remains a concern. Injuries to his legs and a concussion limited him to 113 games last season, the second-highest total of his career. In 2021, he played 138 games, setting career highs with a .286 batting average, 34 home runs, 80 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases.
O’Neill was named the American League Comeback Player of the Year at the Players Choice Awards, following a 2023 season in which he played only 72 games before being traded from the Cardinals to the Red Sox. In his first game with Boston, O’Neill homered, marking his fifth consecutive Opening Day home run, setting a Major League record.
O’Neill has also earned Gold Glove awards in 2020 and 2021 for his defensive skills.
Gary Sánchez is expected to serve as the backup catcher to All-Star Adley Rutschman. Sánchez, who turned 32 on Monday, hit .220 with 11 home runs and 37 RBIs in 89 games for Milwaukee last season.
