Jackson Holliday Injury: Orioles Star to Miss Opening Day with Hamate Fracture

Orioles’ Jackson Holliday to Undergo Surgery for Hamate Bone Fracture, Will Miss Opening Day

Baltimore Orioles second baseman Jackson Holliday will miss the start of the 2026 season after suffering a broken hamate bone in his right hand, team president of baseball operations Mike Elias announced Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

Holliday, 22, will undergo a surgical procedure to repair the fracture on Thursday, Elias said. The team anticipates his recovery will be “measured in weeks” following Opening Day, though a precise return timeline remains uncertain.

The injury occurred during batting practice last week, according to reports. The hamate bone, located in the wrist, is a common source of injury for baseball players, with New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor and Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll recently suffering similar fractures.

Holliday, who debuted in April 2024, entered the 2024 season as the No. 1 overall prospect according to MLB Pipeline. Through his first 209 career games, he has hit .229 with a .300 on-base percentage and 22 home runs.

The injury presents a significant setback for both Holliday and the Orioles as they prepare for the upcoming season. The team had projected Holliday to be a key contributor, potentially as the starting second baseman and leadoff hitter.

During Holliday’s absence, the Orioles may turn to recent acquisition Blaze Alexander to fill the second base position.

Elias also provided an update on third baseman Jordan Westburg, who is currently working through a right oblique injury. While Westburg has reportedly “turned a corner” in his recovery, his participation in Grapefruit League games will be delayed. Elias indicated that Westburg is not expected to miss any regular season games.

Hamate bone fractures often require surgery and can sideline players for an extended period. Baseball Prospectus’ database suggests that players who have undergone hamate surgery have historically missed approximately seven weeks on average. However, recovery times can vary significantly depending on the severity of the fracture and individual patient factors.

The Orioles have been active this offseason, aiming to build on their recent success. Holliday’s injury adds an unexpected challenge as the team navigates spring training and prepares for a competitive 2026 campaign.