Orioles Update: Holliday Benched, Lineup Changes Ahead of Royals Game

Baltimore, MD – Jackson Holliday was not included in the starting lineup for the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday against the Kansas City Royals. The decision comes as Royals left-hander Kris Bubic takes the mound, against whom Holliday has struggled in the past.

This season, Holliday has hit just .167 with an on-base percentage of .286 when facing left-handed pitchers, compiling 18 at-bats. Jorge Mateo is expected to take his place at second base and will bat ninth.

In recent games, the Orioles have experimented with their lineup to improve offensive performance, moving Holliday up to the sixth spot in their previous match against the New York Yankees. This change is part of an effort to boost a struggling offense that currently ranks 20th in the majors in runs scored.

“We hope his ascension can turn our offense around,” said Orioles manager Brandon Hyde. Holliday has shown promise, hitting nearly .300 with an on-base percentage over .400 in his last 13 games, despite a season OPS of .680.

The Orioles’ rotation has also faced challenges, with a 6.05 ERA, ranking last in the American League. Cade Povich, who has a 5.04 ERA, has yielded four runs over 10 innings in two previous matchups against the Yankees.

Despite Holliday’s recent form, the Orioles must rely on the lineup’s collective power to improve their performance. In light of injuries to players like Colton Cowser and Tyler O'Neill, the team hopes Holliday can maintain his place in the lineup as they seek to elevate their game.

Holliday’s performance in this game may determine his future batting order position as the season progresses.