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Tyler O’Neill Continues Opening Day Home Run Streak with Orioles
TORONTO – Tyler O’Neill has seemingly turned hitting home runs on opening day into a natural occurrence. The Canadian outfielder connected for a home run on opening day for the sixth consecutive year, extending his own Major League Baseball record while leading the Baltimore Orioles to a decisive 12-2 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Thursday.
Hailing from Burnaby, B.C., O’Neill emphasized that he focuses on making solid plate appearances rather than intentionally seeking home runs. “I’m just trying to not make too much of it. Just trying to go out, have a good first at bat, see what the game gives me from there,” he explained in the visitors’ clubhouse. “I understand the significance of the streak, but I’m not doing anything out of the ordinary.”
This latest opening day homer adds to his previous five, which included four hits as a member of the St. Louis Cardinals and last year’s shot with the Boston Red Sox. O’Neill, who inked a three-year, $49.5 million contract with the Orioles in December, made his regular-season debut with the team during this game.
O’Neill reflected on his unique streak, stating, “It’s fun, right? It’s a good time, and it’s a fun streak. I don’t really think too much of it anyway. I already had the record last year, so today was just the cherry on top.” Throughout his career, he has maintained a .246 batting average with 110 home runs over eight seasons. Last season, he recorded 31 homers while hitting .241 for Boston before joining Baltimore.
Manager’s Praise for O’Neill’s Impact
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde expressed optimism about O’Neill’s addition to the team, noting how his intense playing style aligns with the team’s goals. “I love how hard-nosed he is. He’s a team guy, and I know he’s really excited to be here,” Hyde remarked. “Having the start that he’s had for us is going to be significant.”
O’Neill’s opening day also had a personal touch, as he was able to share the moment with his parents, wife, daughter, and extended family, who traveled from British Columbia to Toronto to support him. He also brought a taste of home to his new teammates by treating them to Tim Hortons doughnuts. “That’s the kind of guy he is; he takes care of everyone,” praised starting pitcher Zach Eflin.
Following his successful start, O’Neill expressed plans to replicate the pre-game preparation. “I will definitely be bringing a couple of doughnuts tomorrow,” he said, to which Hyde humorously added, “Whatever works. I’m good with whatever. Wear the same clothes, do the same things. Whatever you did today, do it tomorrow.”
This remarkable opening day left fans enthusiastic about O’Neill’s potential contribution to the Orioles as they aim to build on their successful record from the previous season, when they finished with 91 wins and secured the top wild card spot in the American League.
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globalnews.ca