Should Jackson Holliday remain Orioles’ leadoff hitter? | MAILBAG

Question: Jackson Holliday has really struggled lately offensively. Do you think he should be moved down in the batting order? I am thinking 7th. 8th, or 9th? Jeremiah Jackson has been tremendous so far and would make a much better leadoff hitter at least until Holliday starts hitting again. Being a leadoff hitter and not being able to get on base is not good. What do you think? From: John Leach

Answer: John, I agree that Jackson Holliday has struggled, and maybe if he were moved down in the lineup, he might hit a little better. However, the Orioles have long since conceded they were not in postseason contention, and because of that, it’s better to let Holliday grow for the long term and leave him where he is.

If the Orioles were in playoff contention, then certainly move him, but since the final weeks of the season are for long-term development, allow him to take his lumps and hope that it will benefit him in the long run.

Question: Heston Kjerstad went on the minor league injured list several weeks ago because of fatigue. What is the real story and his status? From: Greg Fuchs

Answer: I have gotten many questions about Kjerstad, including from Neil Dugan, Michael Knudsen and Richard Newell. I don’t know anything more about his status, and the Orioles will let us know if they’re able to release more information about him.

Most weekdays, I’ll be answering at least one Orioles question. If you’d like to submit a question, send it to: Rich@BaltimoreBaseball.com. Questions may be edited for clarity, length and style.