Orioles' O'Neill Suffers Setback, Cowser's Potential Return Date

James

3 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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Orioles' O'Neill Suffers Setback, Cloud Over Cowser's Return Date

The Baltimore Orioles are facing some tough news on the injury front, with outfielder Anthony Santander experiencing a setback in his recovery and uncertainty surrounding Gunnar Henderson's potential return date. These developments cast a shadow over the team's playoff push, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike.

Santander's Setback Delays Return

Anthony Santander, a crucial part of the Orioles' potent offense, has suffered a setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury. While the team hasn't released specific details regarding the nature of the setback, manager Brandon Hyde hinted at a more significant issue than initially anticipated. This unfortunately means a further delay to his return to the lineup, leaving a gaping hole in the Orioles' batting order. His absence weakens their already thin outfield depth, putting more pressure on other players to step up. The Orioles are remaining tight-lipped about a potential timetable for his return, fueling speculation amongst fans and experts alike. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the team's playoff race.

Cowser's Return Remains Unclear

Adding to the Orioles' injury woes is the uncertain timeline for top prospect Colton Cowser's return to the major leagues. After a promising start to his MLB career, Cowser was optioned back to Triple-A Norfolk to address some inconsistencies at the plate. While his call-up was expected sooner rather than later, the Orioles haven't provided a concrete date for his return. This lack of clarity leaves fans wondering if he’ll be a factor in the Orioles' playoff push. Some speculate that the team may be waiting for a more opportune moment – perhaps after the trade deadline – to bring him back up.

Impact on the Orioles' Playoff Chances

These injuries significantly impact the Orioles' playoff chances. Santander's power hitting and consistent batting average are sorely missed, while Cowser's potential to provide a boost to the offense remains unrealized. The Orioles are currently battling for a playoff spot in a highly competitive AL East, and the absence of key players like Santander and the delayed return of Cowser could prove detrimental. The team's performance in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining their postseason fate.

What's Next for the Orioles?

The Orioles need to find ways to navigate this difficult period. This might involve exploring the trade market for additional outfield depth or relying on internal options to step up and fill the void left by Santander's absence. The team's medical staff will need to carefully monitor Santander's progress and ensure a complete recovery to prevent further complications. Regarding Cowser, the front office needs to carefully assess his performance in Triple-A and determine the optimal time for his return to maximize his impact on the team. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping the Orioles' season and their chances of making a deep playoff run. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds. For more Orioles news and analysis, be sure to check back regularly!