The Orioles #1 pick and the first overall selection in the 2022 draft, this left-handed hitting SS would be the #1 prospects in most organizations but has to wait his turn behind Gunnar and Grayson.
Jackson Holliday
Pos: SS
Bats: L
Throws: R
Age (as of Jun 30th) : 18
2021 Level: FCL/A
Tools (current/future value)
Hit: 35/70
Game Power: 25/55
Raw Power: 35/60
Run: 60/55
Defense: 40/60
Most Likely Future Role: Starting SS
Ceiling: 1st Division Starting SS, multiple All-Star appearances
What we know: The 1st overall pick in the 2022 draft, this left-handed-hitting shortstop has the making of a future superstar and the fact that he’s “only” the 3rd best prospect in this system speaks to how good the two players are that are ahead of him. In fact, we could have built a case for him to be #1 if we really wanted to, but alas being so far away from the big leagues and with just 90 professional PAs under his belt, this seems to be the right place for him.
Jackson is a legitimate five tool SS with an advance feel for hitting at a very young age. He started his career demolishing Florida Complex League pitching for a .409/.576/.591/1.167 slash line with an eye opening 10 BBs to 2 K ratio. Even more amazing he had a swinging strike % of just 5.9%. Promoted to the Carolina League where he was once of the youngest players in the league, Jackson looked to be focused on making contact over power, walking 15 times while striking out 10 in 57 Pas while slashing .238/.439/.333/.772. Even more amazing he actually cut his swinging strike % to 4.3%.
Jackson gets into deep counts often without panicking and uses the opposite field well. He didn’t drive the ball much overall, but he will certainly grow into his power potential. Having such an advanced knowledge of the strike zone and contact rate is a great base for any player.
Defensively, Jackson shows good quickness and a strong arm at shortstop and has the build to stay there long term.
He runs well, and although he’s not a burner, he’s going to steal some bases.
What we don’t know: Obviously it’s very early in his professional career and there is no telling how he can hit upper level pitching until he gets there, but his advanced approach is a great indicator. He doesn’t have massive raw power, but he does have plus raw power that he needs to learn how to tap into as he matures as a hitter.
What we think: Jackson has all makings of a player who will move very quickly through the system. His advanced feel for hitting, defensive abilities, and makeup should enable him to get through the lower levels very quickly, and it would not surprise us if he finishes 2023 in Bowie (AA). Power will most likely be the last tool to show on the field, but he will be a very exciting player to watch next season.
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