Orioles' Jackson Holliday is set to make a rare appearance at third base during his rehab assignment with Double-A Chesapeake. This move comes as a strategic decision to address the team's versatility needs and fill the void left by injured players. Holliday, a 22-year-old infielder, has primarily been a second baseman at the big-league level but is now stepping into an unfamiliar role.
Holliday's journey to third base is a fascinating one. It's been three years since he last played there, and his previous experience was limited to just one game each at High-A and Double-A. The 2025 season saw Holliday struggle defensively, with -10 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and a ranking in the 5th percentile for Outs Above Average. His time at shortstop was equally uninspiring, with -2 DRS in a limited number of games.
The Orioles' infield has been a mess this season. Third baseman Jordan Westburg, who was expected to be a key player, has been sidelined with a partial UCL tear and subsequent elbow pain. This has left a void that Holliday's versatility might help fill. The team's other third baseman, Coby Mayo, has also underperformed, posting -3 DRS in 42 big-league games at the position.
The situation has opened up opportunities for other players. Jeremiah Jackson, who started as the primary option at second base, has shown promise with a .768 OPS at the end of April, including a grand slam. However, his performance has dipped in May, with just 3 hits in 23 at-bats. The Orioles' manager, Craig Albernaz, is considering keeping Jackson at second base, where he has big-league experience, but Holliday's return to third base could provide additional lineup flexibility.
Holliday's return to third base is a strategic move that addresses the team's versatility needs and provides a solution to the current infield crisis. It's a fascinating development that could have significant implications for the Orioles's season.
