Since being recalled from Triple-A Norfolk, Jackson Holliday has been on a tear hitting five home runs in 10 games, making him the only player in Orioles history to do so before the age of 21. He has also become the youngest player to hit four home runs in a six-game span since Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in 2019. Four of Holliday’s home runs have traveled more than 400 feet, showcasing his power at the plate. Despite his early struggles earlier in the season, where he went 2-for-34 with no extra-base hits and 18 strikeouts, Holliday has turned things around and is now one of the most potent hitters on the team.
Holliday attributes his success to not trying to hit home runs but rather focusing on hitting the ball hard on the barrel. His confidence at the plate has grown significantly, and he credits his recent success to the experience gained from playing in the majors and making adjustments in his swing. Co-hitting coach Ryan Fuller highlighted the changes Holliday has made, including a wider base, stronger body positions, and smaller movements, giving him more time to make better decisions at the plate. These adjustments have paid off, as Holliday has been able to capitalize on pitches and drive the ball all over the field.
Manager Brandon Hyde has praised Holliday’s confidence and ability to hit fastballs, noting that success breeds more success, especially at the major league level. Holliday’s hot streak has transformed the perception of him from a struggling rookie to a key contributor in the Orioles lineup. Despite batting in the No. 8 spot in the lineup, Holliday has been productive and has provided much-needed offense for the team. He remains humble about his recent success, emphasizing that his focus is on hitting line drives and barreling the ball, with the home runs being a byproduct of his approach.
The development staff at Triple-A Norfolk played a crucial role in helping Holliday make the necessary adjustments to his swing and approach at the plate. By focusing on refining his mechanics and stance, they helped him develop a more consistent and effective swing that has translated to success at the major league level. These adjustments have allowed Holliday to have more time to react to pitches and make better contact, resulting in his recent power surge. Overall, Holliday’s transformation from a struggling rookie to a standout performer is a testament to his work ethic, dedication, and willingness to learn and adapt to the challenges of playing in the major leagues.
As Holliday continues to impress with his performance at the plate, his teammates and coaches have taken notice of his development and growth as a player. His ability to make adjustments and capitalize on opportunities has been a key factor in his recent success, and he is poised to be a significant contributor to the Orioles for years to come. With his hot streak showing no signs of slowing down, Holliday has solidified his place in the Orioles lineup and is poised to become a fan favorite in Baltimore. Time will tell if he can sustain his current level of play, but for now, Holliday has proven that he has what it takes to succeed in the big leagues.
