The Baltimore Orioles have already brought one of their highly regarded prospects to the majors this season. Another one could be forcing his way onto the roster as well.
Jeff Passan of ESPN reported on Tuesday that Jackson Holliday would be promoted to the major league roster. He has since taken over at second base, pushing Jorge Mateo into a utility role. As the son of former All-Star Matt Holliday and the top prospect in baseball, expectations are high for the 20-year-old.
Coby Mayo may not be far behind. The Orioles’ third-best prospect and 28th-best prospect in baseball, per MLB.com, Mayo is off to a torrid start with the Triple-A Norfolk Tides.Â
He has produced a .377/.433/.721 batting line in his 67 plate appearances, belting five homers and four doubles. There is some swing and miss to his game as Mayo has struck out 23 times, but his immense power makes up for that deficiency.Â
Mayo’s performance has matched his scouting report thus far. He has been lauded for his impressive power, plus bat speed and strength.Â
While there have been questions about whether or not Mayo can stick at third, he does move well and has one of the best arms in the minors. The Orioles have also given Mayo time at first, which could hasten his arrival in the majors.