Baltimore Orioles Injury Update: Holliday, Westburg, and Selby Sidelined for Start of 2026 Season
The Baltimore Orioles will start the 2026 season with second baseman Jackson Holliday on the injured list due to a fractured hamate bone in his right hand. This injury occurred during live batting practice, and he is expected to miss the first few weeks of the season. Infielder Jordan Westburg also suffered an oblique injury but is likely to miss only a few games of Grapefruit League play. Right-handed pitcher Colin Selby is dealing with inflammation in his right shoulder and is expected to start the season on the injured list.
Holliday's injury is significant as he was set to be the starting second baseman for the Orioles after a solid performance last season. With Holliday out, the team will have to rely on trade acquisition Blaze Alexander and utilityman Jeremiah Jackson to fill the second base position. Alternatively, Westburg could play second base, and Coby Mayo could see time at third base at the beginning of the season.
Despite fans speculating that Holliday's injury influenced the acquisition of Alexander, the timing was coincidental. Holliday got injured after the trade was completed, and it did not impact the decision to acquire Alexander. The team is focused on managing the injuries and preparing for the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Baltimore Orioles as the season approaches.