Baltimore Orioles infielder Jackson Holliday shared the reason for his World Baseball Classic decision.
The Baltimore Orioles are expecting internal growth from several young players this season, and one of the most important is Jackson Holliday. After an up‑and‑down rookie campaign, the former No. 1 overall pick is working his way back from injury while preparing for a pivotal second full season in Baltimore.
Holliday entered spring training hoping to build momentum after a challenging first full season in the majors. Instead, the 22‑year‑old suffered a broken hamate bone early in camp and underwent surgery on Feb. 12. The injury likely rules him out for Opening Day, though the organization expects him to return shortly afterward if his recovery continues as planned.
On an appearance this week on Foul Territory, Holliday revealed that he and his brother, Ethan Holliday, were invited to represent Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic because of eligibility through their grandfather.
Holliday said he ultimately decided against the opportunity. “It did not really feel right,” Holliday explained, adding that he hopes to play for Team USA instead. “I would love to play for the USA team one day,” Holliday said.
The invitation itself was not surprising. Italy’s roster for the international tournament includes a mix of MLB talent and minor leaguers with family ties to the country, which creates opportunities for young players like Holliday to participate. Still though, Holliday decided against the opportunity because he did not feel that he was Italian enough to commit.
Plenty of MLB’s brightest superstars have been competing at this year’s tournament, including Holliday’s Orioles teammate Gunnar Henderson, who is a part of Team USA’s roster.
For now, though, Holliday’s focus remains firmly on returning healthy and helping Baltimore compete in 2026. While his first full MLB season showed flashes , it also highlighted clear areas for improvement.
Holliday finished with a .242 batting average, .314 on‑base percentage and .690 OPS, adding 17 home runs, 55 RBIs and 17 stolen bases. Defensive inconsistency also contributed to what many viewed as a learning year for one of baseball’s former top prospects.
The Orioles spent the offseason strengthening the roster so Holliday will not need to carry the offense alone. Baltimore added star first baseman Pete Alonso and acquired outfielder Taylor Ward in a trade, moves that should deepen the lineup around their young core.
There is also plenty of long‑term room for Holliday to grow. He remains under team control for five more seasons, giving the Orioles time to let his development unfold naturally.
If Holliday takes a meaningful step forward once he returns from injury, Baltimore’s lineup could become significantly more dangerous and that could play a major role in the club’s hopes of returning to the postseason.