Jackson Holliday did not take the next step in 2026

Camden Chat's Tyler Young argues that Baltimore Orioles infielder Jackson Holliday failed to take a developmental leap in 2026 amid recurring hand and wrist injuries. After missing time early with a broken hamate bone in his right hand, Holliday endured an inconsistent campaign that ended early on September 14 due to a left wrist injury requiring surgery. He concluded the season with an 82 OPS+ across a .229/.300/.340 slash line.

Young notes that while injuries severely impacted Holliday's exit velocity and power, he also struggled defensively and failed to meet expectations as a former top overall prospect. Facing pressure to compete in 2027, the writer suggests the Orioles should adjust Holliday's role and consider platoon options rather than automatically locking him in as an everyday starter.