Despite Orioles Struggles, Jackson Holliday Appears to Be Turning Career Around

BALTIMORE — For much of the 2025 MLB season, the Baltimore Orioles have been mired in frustration. An eight-game losing streak has tested the team’s mettle and left fans wondering if their promising squad could maintain last season’s momentum. Yet amid the team’s struggles, a bright spot has emerged in the form of rookie outfielder Jackson Holliday.

Once heralded as one of baseball’s top prospects and the first overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, Holliday’s transition to the majors has not been without bumps. The adjustment to major league pitching, increased pressure, and the burden of expectations have weighed heavily on the 21-year-old. But recently, signs have pointed to a young player beginning to find his footing—and perhaps more importantly, a player who embodies the Orioles’ hopeful future.

The Weight of Expectations

Jackson Holliday entered professional baseball under a microscope. The son of Hall of Famer Matt Holliday, Jackson was widely viewed as a potential franchise cornerstone before he even donned an Orioles uniform. His path through the minors was impressive, featuring strong plate discipline, solid defense in center field, and an approach that suggested an advanced baseball IQ.

However, the leap to the majors is notoriously difficult. The quality of pitching improves dramatically, and every flaw in a hitter’s swing or approach is magnified. Jackson’s initial months in the majors reflected this reality. Struggling to hit breaking balls, especially offspeed pitches away from the strike zone, his batting average hovered below .170 for much of May, and he battled bouts of inconsistency that made it difficult to secure an everyday role.

The pressure was palpable—not just from the outside but from within. Being a high draft pick and a first-round pick comes with expectations of immediate production. Orioles fans, hungry for a star, looked to Holliday as a beacon, but the growing pains were hard to ignore.

Early Season Struggles

The numbers paint a clear picture of those struggles. In his first 40 games, Holliday posted a .195 batting average with only 1 home run and 10 RBIs. His strikeout rate hovered around 28%, which is on the higher side for a young player trying to make adjustments.

He showed flashes of the tools that made him a top prospect—his speed on the bases, solid glove work in center field, and occasional bursts of power. But the ability to consistently drive the ball or get on base was elusive.

Manager Brandon Hyde, however, expressed patience and support.

“We knew it wouldn’t be easy,” Hyde said in early May. “Jackson is a young player with a lot of upside. The key is staying confident and continuing to work. We believe in him.”

The Turning Point

The past two weeks have marked a noticeable change for Holliday. In the Orioles’ last 10 games, he’s hit .315 with 2 home runs, 8 RBIs, and a .375 on-base percentage. His walk rate has improved, strikeouts have dropped, and he’s looked far more comfortable at the plate.

One game stands out: the May 16th win against the Chicago White Sox, where Holliday went 3-for-5 with a double and a home run. That performance not only helped the Orioles snap a four-game losing streak but also seemed to restore his confidence.

Hitting coach Tom Trebelhorn has worked closely with Holliday, adjusting his stance and helping him recognize pitch sequences more effectively. The improvements show in Holliday’s plate discipline—he’s swinging less at pitches out of the zone and waiting for his pitch more consistently.

A Glimpse of the Future

Holliday’s emergence comes at a crucial time. With other key hitters slumping—Anthony Santander, Ryan Mountcastle, and Gunnar Henderson all struggling to produce consistently—Baltimore needs its young core to step up. Holliday’s resurgence provides a needed spark and a glimpse into what the Orioles hope will be a bright future.

“He’s been a breath of fresh air,” said veteran catcher James McCann. “You can tell he’s working hard. When a young guy gets hot like that, it helps the whole lineup.”

His defense has also been solid. As the primary center fielder, Holliday covers a lot of ground, using his speed and instincts to make difficult catches look routine. Orioles fans have noticed his hustle and determination, qualities that endear him to teammates and supporters alike.

Comparing to Other Young Stars

Jackson Holliday’s career trajectory is not unusual for a top prospect adjusting to the majors. Many players, even those destined for stardom, face similar early hurdles.

Consider Cedric Mullins, the Orioles’ star outfielder who struggled early in his career before breaking out as a two-time All-Star. Mullins’ ability to adjust and find a consistent approach helped him become one of the team’s most valuable players.

Similarly, Ronald Acuña Jr. and Juan Soto took time to develop into elite hitters, battling early slumps and adapting to major league pitching.

Holliday’s progress fits this mold. His patience and recent adjustments could signal the start of a breakout season.

The Impact Beyond the Stats

What makes Holliday’s turnaround noteworthy isn’t just the numbers but the intangible qualities he brings. Leadership, resilience, and a professional approach to the game have become apparent in his daily routine and interactions with teammates.

In a clubhouse trying to bounce back from a demoralizing losing streak, Holliday’s attitude has been a steadying influence.

“Jackson’s work ethic is off the charts,” said teammate Kyle Gibson. “He’s always the first in the cage and the last out. That kind of dedication rubs off on everyone.”

These traits are especially important for a team with a young core still developing its identity. Players like Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, and Jackson Holliday represent the next wave of Orioles stars, and how they handle adversity now will define their careers.

Challenges Remain

Despite the recent improvement, challenges remain. Holliday still needs to prove he can sustain this level of production over a full season. Opposing pitchers will adjust as well, scouting his weaknesses and attacking them.

Baltimore’s struggles have also put more pressure on young players to carry the load. That can be a heavy burden for a 21-year-old, even one with Holliday’s pedigree.

Injuries, the mental toll of losing streaks, and the grind of a long season will test him. But so far, the signs are encouraging.

Orioles’ Long-Term Plans

The Orioles’ front office remains committed to developing their young core. General Manager Mike Elias has repeatedly stressed the importance of patience and building through the draft and development.

“Jackson Holliday is a big part of our future,” Elias said in a recent interview. “He’s shown the tools, the makeup, and the drive to be a cornerstone. We’re going to continue supporting him and the other young players as they grow.”

Baltimore’s minor league system continues to feed talent into the major league club, creating healthy competition and depth. Holliday, as a marquee prospect, is seen as a foundation piece to build around.

What Fans Are Saying

Fans have been vocal about Holliday’s struggles and recent resurgence. Social media has seen an uptick in support, with Orioles supporters rallying behind their young star.

“Give the kid time,” one fan tweeted. “We’ve seen what patience can do with Gunnar and Adley. Holliday will be no different.”

Another wrote, “Jackson is the future. I can feel it. The hustle and the heart are there. The hits will come.”

While some remain skeptical, the overall tone has shifted from frustration to cautious optimism.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Holliday?

The rest of the 2025 season is a critical period for Jackson Holliday. Maintaining consistency will be key, as will continuing to make adjustments at the plate.

The Orioles will also lean on him more in high-leverage situations, testing his ability to perform under pressure. These moments will be invaluable for his development.

The coaching staff is keenly aware of the need to balance opportunity with protection—giving Holliday enough playing time to develop without overwhelming him.

The Bigger Picture

Jackson Holliday’s progress reflects a broader narrative for the Orioles. The team is transitioning from hopeful contender to legitimate playoff challenger, a process that requires both talent and patience.

The struggles of 2025 are a natural part of growth for a young team. The key is to learn from adversity and keep moving forward.

In that context, Holliday’s turnaround is symbolic. It’s a reminder that even when things seem bleak, progress is possible.

Jackson Holliday’s early career with the Orioles has been a rollercoaster—marked by early struggles, growing pains, and now, a promising resurgence. While the team as a whole faces challenges, Holliday’s development offers a beacon of hope for Baltimore baseball fans.

If he can continue this upward trajectory, Holliday may become the player the Orioles have been waiting for: a consistent, dynamic presence both offensively and defensively, who can lead the team to new heights.

For now, Orioles fans will watch eagerly as Jackson Holliday turns the page on his rookie struggles and starts writing the next chapter in what promises to be a compelling career.