Baltimore Orioles second baseman Jackson Holliday is set to begin the 2026 season on the injured list due to a fractured hamate bone in his right hand, an injury sustained during live batting practice on February 6. The club’s president of baseball operations, Mike Elias, informed the press this morning that Holliday is expected to miss the first several weeks of the season, marking a significant setback for the former No. 1 overall pick.
In another injury update, infielder Jordan Westburg is dealing with an oblique strain but is anticipated to return for the early games of Grapefruit League play. Elias expressed confidence that Westburg will be ready for Opening Day. Additionally, right-handed pitcher Colin Selby is facing shoulder inflammation, which is likely to land him on the injured list as well.
Holliday had a promising season in 2025, batting .242 with 17 home runs and 17 stolen bases as the team’s second baseman. His absence will create opportunities for other players, with trade acquisition Blaze Alexander and utilityman Jeremiah Jackson expected to step into the role. Alternatively, Westburg could be shifted to second base, allowing Coby Mayo the chance to start at third.
Despite the timing of Holliday’s injury leading fans to speculate about the recent acquisition of Alexander from the Diamondbacks, the incident was purely coincidental, occurring the day after the trade was finalized. The Orioles had some concerns regarding Westburg’s condition prior, but it was not the reason behind the transaction.
Hamate bone fractures are relatively common in baseball, and players usually require surgery that sidelines them for four to eight weeks. While some players may experience lingering effects on their power upon returning, the extent can vary. This incident marks Holliday’s first major league injury placement, as he was on track for a solid start to the upcoming season.
For Selby, who joined the Orioles from the Royals in July 2024, his injury creates an opening in the bullpen. His previous 2025 performance included a solid 3.21 ERA across 14 major league innings and an impressive 2.45 ERA in Triple-A. With his absence, other pitchers like Grant Wolfram, Yaramil Hiraldo, and Rico Garcia may find better chances to secure their spots in the Opening Day roster. Additionally, Tyler Wells, a former starter now designated to relieve, provides the team with flexibility, as he will be stretched out during camp to prepare for potential rotation or relief roles.
The Orioles will need to adapt to these injuries but have shown resilience and creativity in managing their roster amid these challenges. With the ongoing developments, the team remains focused on the prospects of a successful season.