Outlook Jackson Holliday
Jackson Holliday's Statcast Metrics Hint at Breakout Despite Recent Slump
The everyday second baseman continues to work his way back from hand surgery, batting just .136 over his last seven games for the fourth-place Orioles, who currently sit at 34-39. While these surface results have been sluggish, Holliday's primary starting role remains completely secure with fellow infielder Jordan Westburg sidelined for the remainder of the year.
Although his current .197 batting average is disappointing, his underlying metrics reveal a dramatic surge in both barrel rate and launch angle sweet-spot percentage. Our models expect a strong rebound toward his projected .246 season average and 14 home runs, meaning his recent flashes of power—including a milestone grand slam—point to a highly sustainable long-term breakout.
Baltimore faces a demanding six-game road trip this week, beginning with a tough series in Seattle against Logan Gilbert and George Kirby before visiting Los Angeles to battle Yoshinobu Yamamoto's stingy 2.52 ERA. Given his current slump and these highly difficult pitching matchups, fantasy managers should keep the young infielder benched for now. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 2 days ago
Latest News Jackson Holliday
Outlook Blaze Alexander
Blaze Alexander Scorching Hot at the Plate, Forcing His Way into Consistent At-Bats
Blaze Alexander has been absolutely outstanding lately, putting together a brilliant .444 batting average over his last 14 days and a .377 mark over the past month. His surge provides a massive spark for the fourth-place Orioles (34-39), who are currently navigating a season-ending elbow injury to Jordan Westburg. Though officially listed as a backup utility option across the infield and outfield, Alexander's red-hot bat has secured him regular opportunities.
Under the hood, Alexander's current .296 season average is a significant leap over his previous career marks and our projected .231 rest-of-season average. While his current contact rates are due for regression, he has chipped in seven stolen bases on the year to offer multi-category appeal. Fantasy managers should ride the hot hand while he continues to hit line drives, but keep expectations realistic for the long term.
This week brings six road games, starting with three in Seattle against tough starters like Logan Gilbert before heading to Los Angeles for three against the Dodgers. While matchups against Yoshinobu Yamamoto and his microscopic 2.52 ERA will be difficult, Alexander's weekly projection of a .360 average makes him a must-play in deep and middle-tier leagues. Verdict: Start.
Updated 2 days ago
