Who ranks second in the American League in OPS behind Aaron Judge? The answer might surprise fans who haven’t been keeping a close eye on the Orioles: it’s Ryan O’Hearn.
The 31-year-old slugger has been a bright spot during an otherwise disappointing start for Baltimore. On Tuesday night, he added to his strong season with a three-run homer in the fifth inning of a 7-4 loss to the Cardinals at Camden Yards. It was his ninth home run of the season, bringing his batting average to .340 and his OPS to .986 trailing only Judge’s 1.234 among qualified AL hitters, and ranking fourth in all of MLB.
O’Hearn’s numbers are well within All-Star territory and could even position him as the Orioles’ Most Valuable Player for 2025. His versatility playing first base, DH, and corner outfield has only added to his value on a team currently sitting at 19-35.
Despite his personal success, O’Hearn remains focused on the team’s performance.
“I want to win games and help the team,” O’Hearn said. “But those good numbers come when you’re doing things right to contribute.”
After limited opportunities with the Royals from 2018–2022, O’Hearn has become a key part of Baltimore’s lineup since joining the team in 2023, posting solid numbers across the past two seasons and helping the Orioles reach the playoffs. His 2025 campaign is shaping up to be his best yet.
Just last week, O’Hearn tallied four hits including a double and three singles in an 11-inning win over the Brewers. It was one hit shy of his career high and a continuation of the steady production Baltimore has come to expect.
Interim manager Tony Mansolino summed it up well: “I looked up and saw he had four hits, and thought, ‘How did Ryan do that again?’ But that’s just him. He’s been consistently solid.”
Over a recent seven-game stretch, O’Hearn went 16-for-28 (.571) with two home runs, two doubles, and seven RBIs the best seven-game stretch of his Major League career.
O’Hearn credits his success to experience and quick in-game adjustments.
“I’m seeing the ball well and adjusting quickly,” he said. “I’m not swinging for homers, just trying to find the barrel and stay through the middle. The swing feels good.”
His 405-foot blast on Tuesday briefly gave Baltimore a 4-3 lead, but the team once again struggled with runners in scoring position going 1-for-14 in those spots and the bullpen couldn’t hold the lead.
The Orioles continue to create chances but aren’t consistently converting them. The expected return of key bats like Jordan Westburg and Colton Cowser, both beginning rehab stints at Triple-A Norfolk, could help ease the burden on O’Hearn.
Still, Mansolino is encouraged by the team’s fight.
“The guys battled tonight,” he said. “They competed, and the energy was there. A few timely hits could’ve changed the outcome. I appreciate their effort.”
