Two Baltimore Orioles Prospects Survive Newest Organizational Rankings
The Baltimore Orioles’ farm system has been one of the most celebrated in Major League Baseball (MLB) over the last several years. After a long stretch of rebuilding, the franchise has seen a significant turnaround in talent development, giving fans hope for a bright future. The 2025 season marks an important moment for the team, as many of the prospects who have been developed in their system are now on the cusp of breaking into the major leagues.
In the latest organizational rankings for the Orioles, two standout prospects have continued to hold their ground among the top talents in the system. While there have been a number of shifts within the rankings, these two players have shown the potential to make an impact at the major league level sooner rather than later.
These two prospects are Jackson Holliday, a highly touted shortstop, and Colton Cowser, an outfielder who has the tools to become a major contributor. Both players represent the future of the Orioles, and their continued success at the minor league level will be key to the team’s push for sustained success.
Jackson Holliday: The Future Shortstop
Jackson Holliday has been at the top of the Orioles’ prospect rankings since he was drafted first overall in the 2022 MLB Draft. Holliday, the son of former MLB All-Star Matt Holliday, has exceeded expectations in his brief time in the Orioles’ system. The 19-year-old shortstop’s combination of plate discipline, defensive ability, and baseball IQ has impressed scouts and analysts alike.
Holliday’s rise through the Orioles’ minor league system has been swift, and his performance has solidified his place as one of the top prospects in all of baseball. As of the 2025 season, Holliday is projected to be one of the key pieces in the Orioles’ future, and he has the potential to be the team’s starting shortstop for many years to come.
In 2024, Holliday’s performance at Double-A Bowie was a testament to his growth as a player. He posted an impressive batting average, showcasing his ability to make consistent contact and control the strike zone. His advanced plate discipline and ability to get on base have been standout traits, as he regularly works deep counts and avoids striking out at a high rate.
Defensively, Holliday has shown exceptional instincts at shortstop. His ability to range to both sides of the infield and his strong arm have made him one of the top defensive shortstops in the Orioles system. Holliday’s fundamentals and work ethic have earned him rave reviews from coaches and scouts, who believe he has the tools to be a Gold Glove-caliber shortstop in the future.
The next step for Holliday is continuing his development at Triple-A Norfolk and eventually earning a promotion to the major leagues. His blend of hitting ability, speed, and defense make him one of the most exciting young players in the game. If he can continue to develop at his current pace, it’s only a matter of time before Holliday is patrolling the infield at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
Colton Cowser: A Future Star in the Outfield
While Jackson Holliday is the headliner of the Orioles’ prospect rankings, Colton Cowser is another player who has shown tremendous promise. The outfielder was drafted by the Orioles in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft, and his rise through the system has been impressive. Cowser has been known for his impressive offensive toolkit, which includes solid power, elite contact skills, and above-average speed.
Cowser’s bat has been his calling card since he was drafted. His quick, smooth swing generates solid contact, and he consistently produces line drives to all parts of the field. While he doesn’t have elite home run power, Cowser’s ability to drive the ball to the gaps and collect extra-base hits makes him a well-rounded hitter with the potential to hit for both average and power. His disciplined approach at the plate and ability to make adjustments has been one of his strengths, allowing him to develop into one of the top offensive prospects in the Orioles’ system.
In 2024, Cowser spent time at Triple-A Norfolk, where he continued to showcase his hitting ability. His numbers were impressive, as he posted a strong on-base percentage while maintaining an above-average batting average. His ability to control the strike zone and work counts makes him an ideal leadoff hitter or middle-of-the-order option for the Orioles moving forward.
Defensively, Cowser has the ability to play all three outfield positions, though he is best suited for center field. His speed and instincts allow him to cover a lot of ground, and his arm is strong enough to make accurate throws from any outfield spot. While Cowser’s defense is solid, his bat will ultimately be what carries him to the majors and defines his future success.
With Cedric Mullins already locked in as the Orioles’ center fielder, Cowser may have to wait for his chance to take over the role full-time. However, he has the versatility to play all three outfield spots, which should give him opportunities to earn major league playing time in the coming seasons. His continued development in the minor leagues will be important for the Orioles, as Cowser has the potential to be a key piece of their lineup for years to come.
Baltimore’s Growing Pipeline of Talent
Holliday and Cowser are not the only talented prospects in the Orioles’ system. The team has assembled one of the most promising farm systems in MLB, with a mix of high-ceiling talents and players who can contribute right away. With additional players like Gunnar Henderson, Grayson Rodriguez, and D.L. Hall already making an impact at the major league level, the Orioles are poised to build a strong team capable of competing for postseason berths in the near future.
The organization’s commitment to developing homegrown talent is paying off, and Holliday and Cowser are prime examples of this success. As the Orioles continue to develop their young players, their farm system will be crucial to the team’s sustained success. The ability to cultivate talent internally and avoid over-reliance on free-agent signings is key to the franchise’s long-term strategy.
In addition to the players already mentioned, there are several other up-and-coming prospects to keep an eye on. Heston Kjerstad, Jordan Westburg, and Joey Ortiz are among the players who could make an impact in the near future. These prospects, combined with the talents of Holliday and Cowser, give the Orioles the foundation they need to remain competitive for years to come.
2025 Outlook for Holliday and Cowser
Both Jackson Holliday and Colton Cowser will enter the 2025 season with high expectations. Holliday, with his advanced approach at the plate and defensive prowess, is expected to continue his ascent through the minor leagues and may make his MLB debut by mid-2025. If he continues to develop as expected, he could quickly become a fixture in the Orioles’ lineup and a key piece of their future.
For Cowser, 2025 could be the year that he forces his way into the major league lineup. With his strong bat and versatility in the outfield, Cowser has the potential to provide the Orioles with a dynamic offensive weapon. His performance at Triple-A Norfolk will be critical, as the Orioles will want to ensure that he’s ready to contribute at the highest level.
The Orioles’ prospects are beginning to arrive at the major league level, and Holliday and Cowser represent the future of the organization. As these two players continue to develop, they will be central to the team’s quest to return to postseason glory. Baltimore fans have every reason to be excited about the direction of the franchise, and Holliday and Cowser will be key figures in the team’s continued success.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Orioles are in an enviable position when it comes to their farm system, with Jackson Holliday and Colton Cowser continuing to impress as two of the top prospects in the organization. As both players work their way toward the major leagues, their performances will be critical in determining the future of the Orioles.
Holliday, with his all-around game and potential as a future superstar, is one of the most exciting young players in baseball. Cowser, on the other hand, offers a potent bat and strong defensive capabilities, making him another vital piece of the team’s future. If these two prospects can continue to develop as expected, they could play a pivotal role in the Orioles’ pursuit of championship glory in the coming years.
With a strong pipeline of talent, the Orioles are positioned for sustained success, and Holliday and Cowser are just the beginning. As they continue to thrive in the minors, the Orioles are sure to see a bright future ahead. The team’s investment in player development is paying off, and these two prospects could be the cornerstones of a team that contends for titles in the not-so-distant future.
