Tyler O’Neill Returns from IL to Boost Orioles’ Roster

The Baltimore Orioles made some noise before facing the Atlanta Braves by bringing back two important players—Tyler O’Neill and Jordan Westburg. Their return gives the Orioles a shot of hope and skill as the team tries to find its groove through injuries and lineup changes.

O’Neill looks healthy and eager to make an impact. Westburg, though, comes back with some hesitance because of lingering discomfort.

Tyler O’Neill: Back and Better Than Ever?

Outfielder Tyler O’Neill rejoined the Orioles after battling a stubborn left shoulder impingement that kept him off the field for the second time this year. He put in a strong rehab stint in the minors, batting .382 (10-for-31) over 10 games.

That performance gave interim manager Tony Mansolino enough confidence to say O’Neill’s “110%” ready to help the big league club again.

How O’Neill’s Return Impacts the Orioles’ Depth

Even with his successful rehab, O’Neill’s return comes with some caution—his 2023 numbers haven’t impressed. Before the injury, he was hitting just .188 over 24 games.

Still, Mansolino put O’Neill into the lineup as the designated hitter, showing faith that he can rediscover his power and make a difference.

O’Neill brings a rare mix of speed and power, which fans have always loved. The Orioles are definitely hoping he can reignite that spark soon, especially with the Braves looming.

Jordan Westburg: Playing Through Pain

Third baseman Jordan Westburg also returns, though there’s more uncertainty around him. The 24-year-old aggravated a left index finger injury just last Thursday.

Mansolino admitted Westburg isn’t completely healthy, but he values what Westburg brings to the team.

Why Westburg’s Presence Is Critical

Westburg, hitting second in the order, has been a steady force—solid defense, timely hits. He can play all over the infield and seems to find ways to help, even when not at full strength.

Baltimore’s decision to bring him back, even if he’s limited, shows just how much they want to stay in the mix as the division race heats up.

It’s a risk to move this fast, and fans might be worried about pushing him too soon. But the Orioles need more than just bodies—they need leaders, and Westburg has handled the pressure before.

Hopefully, his finger won’t mess with his swing or his glove work too much.

Roster Moves: Carlson Demoted to Triple-A Norfolk

To make room for Westburg and O’Neill, the Orioles sent Dylan Carlson down to Triple-A Norfolk. Carlson, 26, was hitting .234 with four home runs and 12 RBIs over 41 games this season for Baltimore.

In six MLB seasons, he’s put up a .237 average with 41 homers and 187 RBIs.

Carlson’s had flashes of brilliance but hasn’t found consistency at the big league level. His demotion shows Baltimore wants a roster full of healthy, productive players right now.

Still, with the grind of a long season, Carlson could get another shot. He’s a solid depth option if the Orioles need him later on.

What It All Means for Baltimore’s Season

The Orioles are at a critical point right now. Getting Tyler O’Neill and Jordan Westburg back—even if they’re not 100%—could swing their playoff hopes in either direction.

Their impact matters a lot, especially with tough games like Friday night’s matchup against Atlanta testing the team’s depth. Baltimore needs every bit of resilience it can muster.

Benching Carlson for O’Neill and Westburg says a lot about the Orioles’ mentality. The front office is clearly pushing to win now, leaning on a blend of seasoned vets and rising talent to get them through this stretch.

Fans have plenty of reasons to feel hopeful. O’Neill’s chasing a bounce-back, and Westburg’s grinding through the tough spots. Baltimore looks set to fight for every win, tweaking the lineup and taking it one game at a time.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Orioles’ O’Neill, out since mid-May, comes off IL