Baltimore reinstated Jackson Holliday from the 10-Day IL before Monday’s game, bringing the infielder back to the majors after a lengthy absence tied to spring hamate surgery. He was activated shortly before first pitch and did not start.
The move gives the Orioles a player they expect to use in a regular role moving forward. Holliday had been splitting time between second base and third base on his rehab assignment, and he should start at one of those two spots once he settles back in.
His return arrives as Baltimore continues to adjust its lineup after Jordan Westburg’s season-ending surgery. That leaves only one lineup spot for the group of Jeremiah after Holliday’s return, tightening the competition for playing time in the infield.
The timing matters because Baltimore needed another everyday option now, not later. Holliday’s activation before Monday’s game signaled that the Orioles were ready to move him back into the mix even though he had not yet had a chance to start, and the club’s next step is to sort out how quickly he takes hold of one of the infield spots he has been working at during his rehab.
