O’Hearn and Laureano Reflect on Trade from Orioles to Padres

In a significant shift for both players, Ryan O’Hearn and Ramón Laureano have transitioned from the Baltimore Orioles to the San Diego Padres, marking a new chapter in their baseball careers. The duo, traded just before the deadline, is preparing to face their former team for the first time, creating a blend of nostalgia and fresh opportunities.

O’Hearn Adjusts to New Team Dynamics

Now nearly 3,000 miles from Baltimore, O’Hearn has settled into the Padres’ clubhouse. Reflecting on the past month since his trade, he expressed a mixture of emotions. “I miss the boys over there,” O’Hearn said, emphasizing his fondness for his former teammates while also noting the excitement of joining a team with strong World Series aspirations. He stated, “It’s a good team. Been having fun, getting after it.”

O’Hearn’s departure from Baltimore was anticipated. As one of the standout hitters on a team struggling to remain competitive, and with an expiring contract, he was one of the most likely candidates for a trade. He and Laureano were sent to San Diego in exchange for six prospects, a move that reflected the Orioles’ shift in strategy as they navigated a challenging season.

“It’s tough because you’ve got to learn everybody’s name in the building,” O’Hearn commented on the challenges of adjusting to a new environment. “You’ve got to kind of figure out where you fit in.” Since joining the Padres, he has performed well, hitting .259 with a .751 OPS. Laureano, on the other hand, has excelled even further, boasting a .305 average and .935 OPS since the trade.

Laureano’s Leadership and Performance

Laureano’s presence has eased O’Hearn’s transition, as he described his teammate as “the man.” O’Hearn praised Laureano’s contributions, highlighting his consistency and ability to make an impact on the field. “He’s been incredible,” O’Hearn remarked, adding that Laureano seems to perform extraordinary feats regularly. “I think he’s gonna do more special things down the stretch here.”

As the Padres prepared to face the Orioles, Laureano projected a calm demeanor, humorously stating he expects “zero emotions” when confronting his old team. For O’Hearn, the experience might be more complex. “It will be weird but also enjoyable,” he said, recognizing the respect he holds for his former teammates while gearing up to compete against them. “For the next three days, I’m trying to beat them.”

Prior to the series opener, Orioles interim manager Tony Mansolino acknowledged the contributions both players made during their time in Baltimore. O’Hearn revitalized his career after being designated for assignment by the Kansas City Royals, culminating in a breakthrough 2023 season and an All-Star selection in 2024. “He’s a guy that we love,” Mansolino stated, emphasizing O’Hearn’s significant role with the team.

Both O’Hearn and Laureano were key veteran influences alongside Cedric Mullins, who was traded to the New York Mets at the deadline. The Orioles entered the season with high expectations, being the American League’s winningest team over the past two years. However, a disappointing start led to a managerial change and the trading of nine players for sixteen prospects ahead of the deadline.

When asked about the challenges faced by the Orioles this season, Laureano attributed the struggles primarily to injuries. “That’s it, really,” he said. O’Hearn echoed this sentiment, explaining the unpredictability of baseball: “It just seemed like nothing could go right in the beginning.” He also emphasized the importance of moving forward as he focuses on his current opportunity with the Padres. “I have an amazing opportunity to hopefully go to the postseason.”

As both players embark on this new journey with the Padres, the upcoming series against the Orioles serves as a poignant reminder of their past and a testament to their resilience in facing the future. They are determined to contribute to their new team’s success while cherishing the memories made in Baltimore.