Jackson Holliday officially returned from the injured list Monday, rejoining the Baltimore Orioles ahead of their series opener against Tampa Bay. The 22-year-old second baseman participated in pregame activities but was held out of the starting lineup, with Jeremiah Jackson getting the nod at second base instead.

Holliday's activation comes after recovering from hamate bone surgery in his right hand, which landed him on the IL back on March 22. He completed multiple rehab assignments throughout the Orioles' farm system during the first two months of the season. His minor league stint included recent success with Triple-A Norfolk, where he homered Saturday and tripled Sunday before the call-up.

The former top overall pick in the 2022 draft struggled at the plate during his rehab assignment, batting just .176 with one homer and five RBIs across 22 games. However, he showed promise during his rookie campaign last season, hitting .242 with 17 home runs and 55 RBIs in his first full MLB season. His return gives Baltimore additional infield depth as they continue their playoff push in the competitive AL East.

To accommodate Holliday's roster spot, the Orioles optioned catcher Maverick Handley to Norfolk. Manager Brandon Hyde will likely ease Holliday back into action gradually, potentially using him as a pinch-hitter or late-inning defensive replacement before returning him to the starting lineup.