Jackson Holliday, a standout infielder for the Baltimore Orioles, has been named the team’s recipient of the 2025 Heart and Hustle Award by the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association. The award honors players who demonstrate exceptional performance during the season while embodying the spirit, values, and traditions of baseball both on and off the field.
This annual accolade, voted on exclusively by former MLB players, highlights Holliday’s growth during his first full year with Baltimore as well as his commitment to the game’s heritage.
Impressive Performance in a Key Role for the Orioles
As a second-year player, Holliday has participated in 105 games this season, predominantly playing second base and shortstop. Through 418 at-bats, he has achieved a .256 batting average with a .304 on-base percentage and a .402 slugging percentage, while hitting 14 home runs and driving in 43 runs. Holliday’s speed and base-running ability have also been notable, as reflected in 11 stolen bases.
Defensively, he has maintained a strong presence with a .991 fielding percentage, committing only six errors across his infield appearances. His combined offensive and defensive performance has earned him a 0.9 fWAR, ranking fourth among Baltimore’s position players still active on the roster.
Leadership and Dedication Beyond the Playing Field
Beyond his statistical contributions, Holliday is emerging as a respected leader within the Orioles clubhouse. Despite the team’s overall youth, Holliday’s work ethic and willingness to adapt have drawn praise from both teammates and coaches. His progress this season is particularly striking, especially after overcoming challenges during his rookie campaign.
Off the field, Holliday actively supports the Baltimore Orioles Charitable Foundation, contributing his time and valuable memorabilia to fundraising efforts for local Baltimore organizations. His commitment to the community exemplifies the values celebrated by the Heart and Hustle Award.
History and Significance of the Heart and Hustle Award
The Heart and Hustle Award nominees are selected by alumni representatives from each MLB team, with final winners voted on by the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association. Every MLB franchise has one recipient, and ultimately a league-wide winner is chosen by a combined vote of former players and fans at the end of the season.
Last year, Orioles’ prospect Gunnar Henderson earned the team’s Heart and Hustle Award, while Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals won the overall MLB honor. No Baltimore player has yet secured the league-wide award since its introduction in 2005. The 2025 league-wide winner will be announced in mid-November on MLB Network.
“The 2025 MLBPAA Heart & Hustle Award winners for all 30 teams have been announced!The award is voted on by former MLB players and players are selected who embody the values, spirit and traditions of the game. pic.twitter.com/TvN9Ik43y0” —MLB
Looking Ahead: Holliday’s Growing Impact on the Orioles
Jackson Holliday’s recognition with the Heart and Hustle Award underscores his breakout season and maturation as a player and leader for the Orioles. His blend of skill, effort, and character not only contributes to Baltimore’s present competitiveness but also sets a strong foundation for the team’s future success.
As Holliday continues to develop and support the community, his role within the Orioles organization is likely to expand, inspiring teammates and fans alike. This honor affirms his position among the team’s brightest young stars moving forward.