One unexpected factor could keep Jeremiah Jackson out of Orioles’ active roster spot

For all of the disappointments the Baltimore Orioles had to endure in 2025, one of the bright spots was the rise of Jeremiah Jackson. In the wake of the Gregory Soto trade, Jackson was called up to fill the extra roster spot in the hopes that his 135 wRC+ in the minors last season could translate into an offensive boost that Baltimore desperately needed.

While he cooled off a bit after an insane start, Jackson held up his end of the bargain in his first look at the big leagues with a .755 OPS in 183 plate appearances with Baltimore. If you were to ask most Orioles fans, they would probably say that Jackson played well enough to earn a spot on the big league roster.

However, things are not that simple. After the Orioles traded for Taylor Ward, Baltimore finds itself with more outfielders than outfield spots, and none of them are perfect fits at any one position or "sure thing" everyday players at this point. While Jackson did play well, he may be faced with the unfortunate reality that having minor league options could cost him a roster spot.

Jeremiah Jackson is far from a lock for the Orioles' 2026 roster thanks to his options status

When all things are equal or close to it, one of the deciding factors as to who to carry on the active roster and who to stash in the minors comes down to minor league options. If you ever saw a team keep a questionable veteran on the bench, but sent a promising young talent to the minor leagues at the start of the season, it was probably because the young guy still had minor league options left, and that was the only way the team could keep both players.

In the Orioles' case, options aren't as big a problem as they could be, but they are going to be a factor. The recently signed Leody Taveras has no minor league options left, and neither Ward nor Tyler O'Neil can be optioned to the minors without their consent. Dylan Beavers and Colton Cowser both have minor league options left, but feel like strong favorites over Jackson in any roster considerations.

That leaves Jackson and his three minor league options on the outside looking in unless Baltimore rids itself of one more of their outfielders, which could easily happen. While it may seem like Jackson played well and the Orioles should reward him for it, these sorts of roster choices often come down to more than just performance, even if it doesn't feel great.