Ryan O'Hearn makes the All-Star team, but the Orioles offense vanishes in a 6-0 loss to the Texas Rangers on July 3, 2025. A day of highs and lows.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a day of dizzying highs and crushing lows for Orioles fans. Just as the thrilling news broke that Ryan O'Hearn was named a first-time All-Star starter, the team on the field delivered a painful reminder of their 2025 reality, getting completely shut down in a 6-0 loss to the Texas Rangers. The juxtaposition is stark: a career-defining moment for one player against the backdrop of a season slipping further away.
For the first time in his career, Ryan O'Hearn is an All-Star Game starter, earning the nod at designated hitter for the American League.
In a season short on victories, Ryan O'Hearn has provided a consistent silver lining. That lining is now officially star-studded. O'Hearn was named the American League's starting designated hitter for the July 15th classic in Atlanta, a massive achievement and a testament to his breakout season. Even in Wednesday's loss, he was one of the few signs of life, lacing a double in a 1-for-4 night. For a team 12 games under .500, O'Hearn's success is the story fans can rally behind.
While O'Hearn celebrated, the rest of the lineup floundered at Globe Life Field. The O's offense was non-existent against Rangers starter Nathan Eovaldi, managing just two hits over his five scoreless innings. The game was essentially decided in the third inning when Marcus Semien launched a three-run homer off Orioles starter Tomoyuki Sugano, who later surrendered a solo shot to Corey Seager. Sugano (6-5) took the loss, and the offense, highlighted by Gunnar Henderson's three strikeouts, never mounted a threat. The bullpen kept it respectable, but it was another case of too little, too late for a team that can't seem to string together hits.
The front office continues to churn the roster in search of answers. Outfielder Dylan Carlson was optioned to Triple-A Norfolk for the second time in five days, a clear sign the team is making room for Tyler O'Neill's expected return from the IL this weekend. Carlson's .234 average and .650 OPS haven't been enough to secure his spot. Meanwhile, the pitching staff saw its own shakeup as LHP Keegan Akin landed on the 15-day IL with shoulder inflammation. In his place, the team recalled Yennier Cano and selected the contract of Corbin Martin from Norfolk, both of whom saw action in Wednesday's loss.
Adding to the team's woes, catcher Gary Sanchez left Tuesday's game after a foul tip struck his finger. While interim manager Tony Mansolino stated there was 'minimal concern' and the X-rays were precautionary, any potential absence for Sanchez would be a blow. Veteran Jacob Stallings is ready to step in, but it's another reminder of how thin the team's depth is at key positions.
As the Orioles stumble towards the All-Star break, the narrative is split. On one hand, you have the individual triumph of Ryan O'Hearn, a well-deserved honor that gives fans something to cheer for. On the other, you have the grim reality of a 37-49 record and an offense that can't find its spark. With Tyler O'Neill's return imminent and the trade deadline looming, the next few weeks will be less about a playoff push and more about who will be part of this team's future.
