Here’s a bold statement: Jeremiah Jackson’s role as a utility player might not be as clear-cut as it seems. But here’s where it gets controversial—while his offensive prowess has turned heads, his defensive versatility is still under the microscope. Let’s dive in.
Jeremiah Jackson’s major league debut came at a pivotal moment for the Orioles, just a day after Cedric Mullins was traded to the Mets. With the season unofficially over by the trade deadline, fans were left searching for silver linings—players who could spark hope for 2026 and beyond. Enter Jackson, a 25-year-old determined to make his mark after being drafted by the Angels in the second round of the 2018 MLB draft. The Orioles signed him as a minor-league free agent before the previous season, giving him a fresh opportunity.
Jackson’s journey hadn’t been easy. He’d never advanced past Double-A during his time with the Angels or a brief stint with the Mets. His early performance with Chesapeake was modest, batting .254/.291/.412 in the first two months. But something clicked when he reached Triple-A. Suddenly, he was a standout in Camden Chat’s minor league recaps, slashing an impressive .377/.400/.673 with 11 home runs and 22 RBIs in just 40 games for Norfolk. This was the same player who had struggled to a .205/.245/.373 line in 122 Double-A games the year before—now boasting an OPS over 1.000. And this is the part most people miss—his transformation wasn’t just about power; it was about consistency and adaptability.
The Orioles’ front office took notice, especially with roster spots wide open after departures like Mullins and Ryan O’Hearn. Jackson was called up, but his position wasn’t clearly defined. In the minors, he’d played 12 games at second base, 50 at shortstop, 13 at third, and even dabbled in left and right field. However, with Gunnar Henderson locked in at shortstop and Jackson Holliday firmly at second, Jackson’s path wasn’t straightforward. Jordan Westburg’s need to start at either second or third further complicated things.
Most of August saw Jackson in right field, but he shifted to third base when Westburg sprained his ankle. By season’s end, he’d logged 34 major league appearances in right field, 13 at third, and just one at second base. His bat spoke loudly in the big leagues, slashing .276/.328/.447 with 5 home runs, 21 RBIs, and 20 runs scored in 170 at-bats. These numbers, combined with his ability to play multiple positions, made him a frontrunner for Baltimore’s utility role in 2026.
Jackson’s story is undeniably inspiring, and his offensive skills will keep him valuable—as long as he keeps hitting. But here’s the elephant in the room: Is he truly a utility player? Traditionally, a utility infielder must handle shortstop, and a utility outfielder should be competent in center field. Jackson has yet to play either position at the major league level.
While he has extensive minor league experience at shortstop, would new manager Craig Albernaz trust him in high-pressure MLB situations? The Orioles could turn to Holliday or Westburg for shortstop coverage if needed. Defensively, the team also lacks a reliable center field option behind Colton Cowser, but Jackson hasn’t played the position since 2023 in Double-A. With corner outfielders like Dylan Beavers, Taylor Ward, and Tyler O’Neill already on the roster, the Orioles might lean on Leody Taveras or Enrique Bradfield Jr. for center field duties.
Jackson exceeded rookie limits last season but retains three minor league options. The Orioles could send him back to Norfolk to refine his defensive skills, a common practice in their organization. Meanwhile, Bradfield Jr. doesn’t need the same defensive reps, and the team often shuffles players across the infield in the minors.
Baltimore’s lineup is stacked with power hitters like Pete Alonso, Coby Mayo, Ryan Mountcastle, Henderson, Westburg, and Holliday. The outfield corners are equally crowded. What this team truly needs is a utility player they can trust defensively. Jackson’s defensive abilities will be under intense scrutiny in Sarasota this spring. If he passes the test, he could secure a roster spot. If not, he’ll remain valuable offensive depth for injury-prone players like Westburg and O’Neill.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: Can Jackson evolve into the defensive utility player the Orioles need, or will his role remain primarily offensive? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark some debate!
