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Can Orioles’ Jackson Holliday, Break Free Against the Angels?

Originally posted on The Forkball | By Mo Arslan | Last updated 4/23/24

Baltimore Orioles’ top prospect, Jackson Holliday, is set to return to the lineup on Tuesday night against the Los Angeles Angels after playing in just one of the past three games. The goal for the young infielder is to find his rhythm and deliver quality plate appearances against the Angels.

Challenging Start

Holliday, a 20-year-old infielder, has had a challenging start to his big-league career. With just one hit in 30 at-bats, he’s currently batting a meager .033, accompanied by 16 strikeouts. The pressure of performing on this grand stage has undoubtedly weighed on him, leading to some less-than-ideal at-bats.

Process-Oriented Play

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde emphasizes the importance of process-oriented play for Holliday. “I want him to take four good at-bats,” Hyde stated. “Whatever happens, happens. It’s all about staying focused on the process, even when the scoreboard isn’t in your favor.”

Team Dynamics

While Holliday seeks a turnaround, the Orioles are riding a wave of success. They’ve secured three consecutive wins and have emerged victorious in six of their last seven road games. In contrast, the Angels find themselves in a slump, having lost five straight games. Despite loading the bases in the bottom of the ninth inning during Monday night’s series opener, they fell short, losing 4-2.

Pitching Matchup

The pitching matchup for tonight features right-hander Grayson Rodriguez (3-0, 2.63 ERA) for the Orioles. Rodriguez has consistently worked into the sixth inning in each of his starts this season, allowing two runs in his last three outings. His history against the Angels includes a 2-1 record with a 6.46 ERA.

On the mound for the Angels is right-hander Griffin Canning (0-3, 8.05 ERA). Canning’s first loss of the season came against the Orioles on March 30, where he surrendered five runs in five innings. Interestingly, he holds an unfortunate 0-4 record with a 10.53 ERA in five career outings against Baltimore. The Orioles have managed to tag him for 32 hits in just 19 2/3 innings.

Anticipation

As the Orioles aim to maintain their winning streak, and the Angels seek to break their slump, all eyes will be on Jackson Holliday. Can he find his groove and contribute to the Orioles’ success? Only time will tell, but tonight’s matchup promises excitement and anticipation for baseball fans across the nation.

This article first appeared on The Forkball and was syndicated with permission.

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