Westburg, who has shown steady bat-to-ball skills and power, is expected to be out until at least May, per MLB.com reporter Jake Rill. A PRP injection aims to hasten healing, but surgery remains a remote possibility if recovery stalls.
Westburg’s absence creates an opening at second base, with Blaze Alexander potentially shifting positions. Alexander has prior experience at third base with the Diamondbacks, which could help the Orioles deploy him in multiple spots. Jeremiah Jackson is in line to earn more playing time, having appeared in 48 games in 2025 and posting a .276/.328/.447 slash with five homers.
Holliday’s hamate injury already sidelined the top prospect early, though Baltimore expects Holliday to return within the season’s first month. The club will rely on veteran depth and continued development from its young infield to weather the early-season hurdles.
Injury history underscores Westburg’s durability concerns, as he has dealt with multiple stints on the IL in recent seasons, including a hand injury, hamstring strain, and an ankle sprain. Despite the setbacks, he has been a productive hitter, placing him among the Orioles’ core offensive components when healthy.
With Westburg missing April and Holliday’s timely return uncertain, Baltimore aims to maintain productive infield production and minimize disruption to its lineup. The situation highlights how quickly depth becomes crucial for a club aiming to compete in a demanding AL East.
