When Jackson Holliday, the Baltimore Orioles' promising second baseman, underwent hand surgery, it created an unexpected opportunity for others to step up. Enter Thairo Estrada, a player who was brought in to add depth to the infield.
However, Estrada's performance in spring training has left much to be desired, with just one hit in 17 at-bats. To make the team, Estrada needed to shine, and so far, that hasn't happened.
Estrada's past with the San Francisco Giants showcased his potential. Originally traded from the New York Yankees, he became a reliable starter at second base for the Giants.
From 2021 to 2023, Estrada put together impressive numbers, slashing .266/.320/.416 with 35 home runs, 133 RBIs, and 45 stolen bases. His solid defense and all-around play even earned him the prestigious Willie Mac Award in 2023.
However, 2024 was a challenging year for Estrada, leading to his demotion and eventual departure from the Giants. The Orioles, perhaps influenced by Craig Albernaz's familiarity with Estrada's peak performance, decided to give him a chance.
Despite this opportunity, Estrada's struggles in spring training make it unlikely he'll secure a spot on the team, barring a series of injuries. The Orioles may need to rely on Blaze Alexander and Jeremiah Jackson to fill the gap at second base while Holliday recovers. Fortunately, Holliday's recent updates suggest he won't be sidelined for long, offering hope for the Orioles' infield stability.