Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Ryan O'Hearn

How Ryan O'Hearn built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Ryan O'Hearn is an American professional baseball player currently playing first baseman and designated hitter for the Pittsburgh Pirates in MLB. He previously played for the Kansas City Royals, Baltimore Orioles, and San Diego Padres. O'Hearn was recognized as an All-Star in 2025.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2011: O'Hearn not drafted, Enrolls at Sam Houston State University

In 2011, Ryan O'Hearn was not drafted out of high school and chose to enroll and play college baseball at Sam Houston State University.

2014: O'Hearn's Junior Season at Sam Houston State

In 2014, during his junior season at Sam Houston State University, Ryan O'Hearn batted .292 with eight home runs and 44 RBIs in 62 games.

2014: O'Hearn Drafted by Kansas City Royals

In 2014, the Kansas City Royals selected Ryan O'Hearn in the eighth round of the Major League Baseball draft. He subsequently signed and played for the Idaho Falls Chukars, where he earned the Pioneer League MVP award and a postseason all-star selection.

2015: O'Hearn plays for Lexington Legends and Wilmington Blue Rocks

In 2015, Ryan O'Hearn started with the Lexington Legends and was later promoted to the Wilmington Blue Rocks after a strong performance, earning a mid-season all-star selection.

2016: O'Hearn Plays for Wilmington and Northwest Arkansas

In 2016, Ryan O'Hearn played for both the Wilmington Blue Rocks and the Northwest Arkansas Naturals, achieving a combined slash line of .275/.351/.478 with 22 home runs and 78 RBIs.

2017: O'Hearn Plays for Omaha and Northwest Arkansas

In 2017, Ryan O'Hearn played for the Omaha Storm Chasers and Northwest Arkansas Naturals, hitting a combined .253 with 22 home runs and 64 RBIs across 133 games.

July 31, 2018: O'Hearn Called Up to Major Leagues

On July 31, 2018, Ryan O'Hearn was called up to the major leagues and hit a home run in his first game. He ended the 2018 MLB season with a .262/.353/.597 batting line, 12 home runs and 30 RBI in 44 games.

2021: O'Hearn's 2021 Season

In 2021, Ryan O'Hearn played for the Omaha Storm Chasers and batted .375/.451/.931. With the Royals, he batted .225/.268/.369.

December 28, 2022: O'Hearn Designated for Assignment

On December 28, 2022, Ryan O'Hearn was designated for assignment by the Kansas City Royals, as a roster spot was created for Jordan Lyles.

January 3, 2023: O'Hearn Traded to Baltimore Orioles

On January 3, 2023, Ryan O'Hearn was traded to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for cash considerations, marking a new chapter in his MLB career.

April 13, 2023: O'Hearn Joins Orioles Roster and Makes Debut

On April 13, 2023, the Baltimore Orioles selected Ryan O'Hearn's contract and added him to the major league roster. He made his Orioles debut and had his first three-RBI game in two years.

2023: Career Highs for O'Hearn in 2023

In 2023, Ryan O'Hearn set a career-high with five hits in a game against the Houston Astros on September 18. Overall with the Orioles, he batted .289/.322/.480 with 14 home runs and 60 RBIs.

2023: O'Hearn's Performance and Increased Playing Time in 2023

In 2023, Ryan O'Hearn showcased a strong performance for the Orioles, leading to increased playing time due to his high slugging percentage and Ryan Mountcastle's absence. He benefited from new MLB rules and consistently hit the ball with power.

2024: O'Hearn's 2024 Season with the Orioles

In 2024, Ryan O'Hearn made 142 appearances for the Orioles, batting .264/.334/.427 with 15 home runs and 59 RBI.

July 31, 2025: O'Hearn Traded to San Diego Padres

On July 31, 2025, Ryan O'Hearn was traded to the San Diego Padres along with Ramón Laureano in exchange for several players. He played 50 games for the Padres, batting .276/.350/.387.