Jackson Holliday, the promising second baseman for the Baltimore Orioles, has recently made quite an impression during his time at the spring training facility in Sarasota. Arriving early to camp, along with several other eager young talents on the team, Holliday is determined to build on the foundation he laid during his rookie season, where he faced some challenges, batting .190 over 60 games.
Brandon Hyde, the Orioles’ manager, has been keeping a keen eye on Holliday’s progression. In a candid interview with Foul Territory, Hyde detailed what he has noticed in Holliday’s approach this spring. He said, “I saw video from him in the winter but I was interested to see what it looked like on the field.” It’s refreshing to hear a manager not just focus on statistics but truly evaluate the player’s growth and comfort. Hyde noted, “For me, he did carry over what he was working on at the end of the season last year,” hinting that Holliday has been focusing on improvement rather than getting bogged down by past struggles.
Holliday’s journey has not been a walk in the park. Although his rookie stats were less than stellar, he ended the season on a high note, going 7-for-18 in his last eight games and displaying a sign of potential that never goes unnoticed in the eyes of keen coaches and scouts. Hyde remarked about the importance of taking quality at-bats and highlighted Holliday’s growth both at the plate and on defense. “We’re looking at that, the quality of at-bats and the improvement defensively at second base,” he said, emphasizing the complexities of transitioning to a new position—and at such a high level.
It’s important to remember that Holliday is just 20 years old and stepping into the spotlight at a major league level is no small feat. The adjustments he’s been making, especially after being thrust into the world of professional baseball, require time and patience. Hyde acknowledged this and observed that Holliday is beginning to find his comfort, saying, “You can tell he’s more comfortable now and he’s not trying to impress as much. He’s going out and playing the game.”
Holliday’s drive to refine his game is commendable, as he focuses on becoming “crisp and sharp” at second base. It’s about cleaning up his play and ensuring every move is efficient. “Watching the league, everything is so clean and direct,” he said, illustrating his understanding of what elite performance looks like. He’s training to improve his double-play feeds, trying to get the ball to his teammate Gunnar Henderson as swiftly as possible, allowing Henderson to take over and showcase his own talent.
The off-season made a huge difference for Holliday, according to Hyde. “To have a full year and another offseason, he feels a lot more comfortable.” This statement underscores the value of preparation and growth—elements that can’t be rushed in competitive sports and life.
As Holliday made his debut in the Grapefruit League—a significant milestone for any player—he experienced the ups and downs that come with this profession. Although he didn’t hit during his first game, going 0-for-2 in a 10-5 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates, every experience is a stepping stone. The journey is far more than just statistics; it’s learning to navigate the highs and lows, refining skills, and developing both confidence and capability in a competitive environment.
Holliday’s story resonates with many who understand the pressures of stepping into new roles and expectations, reminding us that with every challenge, there’s an opportunity for growth and greatness. His journey at the spring training camp represents not just the hope of an organization but also the heart and dedication of a young player willing to put in the work to succeed. As Orioles fans look on, they can surely appreciate this rising star and his commitment to realizing his potential on the diamond.
Image Source: Brandon Hyde @ Instagram
