Orioles Manager Tony Mansolino Offers Key Injury Updates on Colton Cowser and Tyler O’Neill as Team Seeks Stability
In a season marred by uncertainty, injuries, and constant lineup reshuffling, Baltimore Orioles manager Tony Mansolino delivered critical updates ahead of Wednesday’s game—specifically addressing the statuses of injured outfielders Colton Cowser and Tyler O’Neill. The two have been integral pieces of the Orioles’ roster this season, both offensively and defensively, and their simultaneous absences have only further complicated an already turbulent 2025 campaign. With the team still searching for rhythm and reliability in the outfield, Mansolino’s words carried weight, offering not only clarity but perhaps a hint of cautious optimism.
Cowser, who suffered a concussion during a violent collision in the outfield last week, has made incremental progress since being placed on the injured list. According to Mansolino, Cowser has passed several stages of MLB’s concussion protocol and is continuing to progress day by day. While he hasn’t yet resumed full baseball activities, the manager noted that Cowser has responded well to light physical exertion, including stationary bike work, agility drills, and light throwing. Mansolino stressed that the team would not rush the 24-year-old back into action, emphasizing long-term health and player safety over short-term roster needs. That approach speaks to the organization’s growing maturity and a recognition that Cowser is a cornerstone piece—not just a one-season asset.
The concussion occurred during a play that at first looked routine but turned dangerous in a heartbeat. Cowser was pursuing a deep fly ball to the gap when he collided awkwardly with the wall and appeared visibly shaken. Trainers rushed to his aid, and although he remained conscious and alert, the symptoms he displayed later that evening—including dizziness and nausea—prompted an immediate evaluation. Within 24 hours, he was placed on the seven-day injured list for concussions. Since then, the team has adhered strictly to league protocols, and the medical staff continues to monitor his condition closely.
Mansolino reiterated that while Cowser is not expected to return before the end of the week, there is hope that he could begin baseball-related activities in the next few days. If all goes smoothly, the team could initiate a rehab assignment as early as next week, but the decision will depend on how Cowser responds to increased intensity. In the meantime, the Orioles have relied on a rotating cast of outfield replacements, including Greg Allen and Ryan Noda, to fill the void.
Tyler O’Neill’s situation, though different in nature, is similarly frustrating. The veteran outfielder has been battling right wrist inflammation, a condition that flared up after a leaping catch attempt resulted in a hard impact with the outfield wall. O’Neill initially tried to play through the discomfort, but increasing pain and limited mobility forced the team to shut him down and place him on the injured list. Mansolino confirmed that O’Neill has resumed hitting off a tee and taking light swings in the cage, though there is still no definitive timetable for his return.
What complicates O’Neill’s status is his importance to the Orioles’ offense. He had emerged as a power threat in the middle of the lineup, capable of changing games with one swing. His ability to hit for extra bases and play aggressive, physical defense made him a fan favorite and a clubhouse leader. Without him, Baltimore’s lineup has lacked its usual punch, and opposing pitchers have found it easier to navigate through a weakened batting order.
Mansolino acknowledged the hole O’Neill’s absence has created but maintained a level-headed perspective, citing the need to avoid setbacks. The manager pointed out that wrist injuries can be especially tricky for hitters, as even minor irritation can throw off timing and bat speed. For now, the focus remains on building up strength and flexibility without pushing the envelope too soon.
While the loss of Cowser and O’Neill would be damaging in any season, it’s especially costly in 2025, given how thin the Orioles’ depth chart has become due to a rash of other injuries. The team has already used 60 players this season—a number that threatens to surpass the franchise record of 62 set in 2021. The outfield, in particular, has been a revolving door. From early-season injuries to long stretches of ineffectiveness from fill-ins, the lack of continuity has been a major challenge both on the field and in the clubhouse.
Yet Mansolino remains calm. In his pregame remarks, he focused not only on the injured stars but on the opportunities created for other players. Dylan Carlson, who has seen an uptick in at-bats during the absences, has responded with flashes of potential. Jorge Mateo, a versatile infielder by trade, has been pressed into occasional outfield duty, providing speed and energy. Even Greg Allen, called up out of necessity, has contributed solid at-bats and sound defense in limited action.
Still, there’s no denying that the Orioles are a better team with Cowser and O’Neill in the lineup. Both bring different but complementary skill sets—Cowser with his disciplined plate approach, outfield range, and sneaky pop; O’Neill with his raw power, veteran savvy, and intensity. Getting either one back would boost a lineup that has struggled since the All-Star break, ranking near the bottom of the league in runs scored and slugging percentage during that stretch.
The timing of these injuries couldn’t be more inconvenient. With the trade deadline passed and the roster already depleted, the Orioles are operating with limited flexibility. Prospects like Dylan Beavers are progressing quickly in the minors, but the organization is wary of calling up young players too early, especially amid a season that has already strained their development system. That makes the returns of Cowser and O’Neill not just desirable but essential if the Orioles hope to finish the season on a stronger note.
Mansolino’s handling of the injury situation reflects his larger approach to leadership. Since taking over as manager, he has faced a steep learning curve, tasked with guiding a young team through a gauntlet of setbacks. Injuries, inconsistency, and the pressure of following recent playoff runs have made for a challenging year, but through it all, Mansolino has maintained his steady demeanor and clear communication. His updates on Wednesday were factual, measured, and rooted in a deep understanding of what his players are going through—physically and mentally.
As the Orioles continue their current homestand, fans remain hopeful that reinforcements are on the way. The team may not be chasing a division title this season, but every game remains meaningful for evaluation, momentum, and morale. In that context, the return of Colton Cowser and Tyler O’Neill would represent more than just added production—it would signal a small victory in a season dominated by adversity.
The Orioles have always prided themselves on resilience. From the grit of the 1970s dynasty to the ironman legacy of Cal Ripken Jr., the franchise has built its identity around perseverance. That same spirit is being tested in 2025, and while this year’s team may not make history in the standings, they are writing a different kind of story—one of endurance, patience, and belief.
For Colton Cowser and Tyler O’Neill, the road back continues with caution, but also with confidence. Each day brings them closer to rejoining their teammates, and each game missed underscores their value. The Orioles will wait for them—not just because they need their bats, but because they represent the type of players who can still help define the future of the team. And when they do return, whether in a few days or a few weeks, the hope is that they can help restore stability to a roster and a fanbase that has held its breath far too often this season.
