Baltimore Orioles‘ second baseman Jackson Holliday suffered a broken hamate bone in his right hand, which has sidelined him throughout spring training and will keep him out on Opening Day. However, recent updates suggest a positive turn in his recovery, providing hope for the Orioles’ fanbase as the new MLB season approaches.
According to Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports, Holliday will have the stitches removed from his right hand on Monday, February 23. After this procedure, he will be allowed to begin swinging the bat again and gradually resume baseball activities. Holliday himself reported feeling good physically despite his injury.
Jackson Holliday gets the stitches out of his right hand Monday. Can start [swinging] after that. Can gradually begin activities. Said it feels good. Doesn’t think it looks good, but docs assured him that’s how the hand’s supposed to look. He’s taking their word for it.
?Roch Kubatko, MASN Sports
Expectations for Holliday’s Playing Time This Season
The Orioles are optimistic that Holliday will not miss a considerable portion of the regular season. While he won’t be ready immediately at the start, the team expects him to return shortly after Opening Day. This timeline indicates that Holliday will need some time to regain full strength and timing at the plate during the first part of the season.
Jackson Holliday’s Career Progress and 2025 Performance
Entering his third major league season, Holliday showed meaningful improvement last year after a challenging rookie campaign. In 2025, he finished with a batting average of .242 and an on-base percentage of .314. His stats included 142 hits, 17 home runs, 55 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases, demonstrating his growing impact on the Orioles’ lineup.
Impact on the Orioles’ Outlook for 2026
For Baltimore, continued development from Holliday is crucial as they aim to improve on their 75-87 record from the previous season. Enhanced offensive production from their former No. 1 overall draft pick would bolster the team’s chances of competing effectively within the tough AL East division. Holliday’s recovery and performance will be closely watched as the Orioles strive for a more competitive 2026 campaign.
Jackson Holliday gets the stitches out of his right hand Monday. Can start sweating after that. Can gradually begin activities. Said it feels good. Doesn’t think it looks good but docs assured him that’s how the hand’s supposed to look. He’s taking their word for it. #orioles
— Roch Kubatko (@masnRoch) February 18, 2026
