Orioles' Tyler O'Neill Needs More Time to Recover

Concussion protocol keeps outfielder sidelined indefinitely

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Baltimore Orioles manager Craig Albernaz announced on Friday that outfielder Tyler O'Neill still needs more time to recover from a concussion and has not yet cleared the league's concussion protocol. O'Neill was eligible to come off the 7-day injured list on Saturday, but that return has been delayed as he continues his recovery process.

Why it matters

O'Neill's extended absence leaves a hole in the Orioles' outfield lineup, opening up more playing time for Dylan Beavers and Leody Taveras. Concussions are a serious issue in professional sports, and the Orioles are taking a cautious approach to ensure O'Neill's full recovery before returning him to game action.

The details

O'Neill, 27, suffered the concussion during a game earlier this month. He was placed on the 7-day injured list, but his recovery has taken longer than initially expected. The Orioles are not rushing him back and will wait until he has fully cleared the league's concussion protocol before activating him.

  • O'Neill was placed on the 7-day concussion injured list earlier this month.
  • O'Neill was eligible to be activated from the injured list on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Tyler O'Neill

A 27-year-old outfielder for the Baltimore Orioles who is currently sidelined with a concussion.

Craig Albernaz

The manager of the Baltimore Orioles.

Dylan Beavers

An Orioles outfielder who is seeing increased playing time with O'Neill out.

Leody Taveras

An Orioles outfielder who is seeing increased playing time with O'Neill out.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“O'Neill (concussion) needs more time to recover and still has yet to clear protocol.”

— Craig Albernaz, Orioles Manager

What’s next

The Orioles will continue to monitor O'Neill's progress and will not activate him until he has fully cleared the league's concussion protocol, which has no set timeline.

The takeaway

Concussions remain a major health concern in professional sports, and the Orioles are taking the appropriate cautious approach with O'Neill's recovery to ensure he is fully healthy before returning to game action. His extended absence will provide more opportunities for other Orioles outfielders.