Royals couldn't tap into O'Hearn's potential

Teams sometimes let players go after they struggle in their uniform, and the Kansas City Royals did just that with first baseman Ryan O'Hearn in 2022. Fans often grew frustrated watching him at the plate, and despite his promising start, O'Hearn's performance in his first five years with the Royals was underwhelming.
Kansas City drafted O'Hearn in the eighth round of the 2014 MLB Draft. During his minor league career, he showcased his power with 120 home runs. The Royals and their fans hoped he could translate this success to the big leagues, but unfortunately, his performance didn't meet expectations.
O'Hearn managed to stay with the Royals longer than many fans anticipated, playing a total of 342 games. Over his time in Kansas City, he accumulated 210 hits, 99 RBIs, and 38 home runs. Although his major league numbers were not stellar, his rookie season was a bright spot. In 44 games, O'Hearn hit 12 home runs and drove in 30 runs. The following year, he played 105 games, recorded 64 hits, and had 38 RBIs, including 14 home runs.
However, O'Hearn's performance declined over the next three seasons. By the end of his tenure with the Royals in 2019, he had hit only 38 home runs and 131 RBIs. Consequently, he was designated for assignment on December 28, 2022, to make room for starting pitcher Jordan Lyles. Shortly after, he was traded to the Baltimore Orioles for cash considerations.
The trade initially seemed minor, but it turned out to be a pivotal moment in O'Hearn's career. In Baltimore, he became a reliable player and was even considered for an All-Star spot in July, narrowly missing out to Houston's Yordan Alvarez. According to BirdsWatcher.com, O'Hearn has been a force in the Orioles' lineup, especially against right-handed pitchers. In 2024, he has emerged as the team's regular number three hitter against right-handers, boasting a .289 batting average, 11 home runs, and 37 RBIs, along with a .827 OPS.
O'Hearn's first season with the Orioles showed significant improvement compared to his 2022 performance with the Royals. He hit 14 home runs and drove in 60 RBIs, with his batting average rising from .239 to .289. His playing time increased from 67 games in 2022 to 112 games in 2023. This season, he has played in 120 games, recorded 100 hits, 13 home runs, and 52 RBIs. As the regular season concludes and the postseason approaches, O'Hearn will look to continue his impressive performance.
The Royals have experienced success with first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino, though he will miss the remainder of the season and possibly the postseason due to a broken thumb. Before the injury, Pasquantino played 131 games, hitting 19 home runs and driving in 97 RBIs. Despite his strong showing, Pasquantino has struggled with injuries, suggesting he might be better suited as a designated hitter while Nick Pratto or Salvador Perez takes over first base duties.
The Royals have a history of letting players go too soon, such as Brent Rooker and Jose Bautista, who later thrived with other teams. O'Hearn seems to be another example of a player who found success elsewhere, and it’s likely there will be more players the Royals let go before realizing their full potential.









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