I hinted at that path a few months ago and got the confused emoji.
Both are ready. Both would upgrade the top 26. Both could start 75+% of the time. Neither would disrupt the R/L balance. Both are legit ROY candidates. Holliday in an all-around way, Mayo with the stats "chicks dig".
Mayo has a more ready MiLB resume. Holliday has as high a floor as anyone to project from at his age. So, for me, the 2024 talent is a bit of a wash.
A few reasons for Holliday before Mayo are:
1. roster construction as Holliday is a natural backfill of LHH Frazier. Lineup management style wouldn't have to change much to start the season.
2. Westburg/Urias mostly at 3B and vs LHP at 2B. The defensive floor around the IF is more stable with Holliday over Mayo. Especially if you're moving Mayo to a new position (and even at 3B).
3. Following Elias' draft capital. Or more broadly, the PR of Holliday is greater than Mayo.
The big reason for Mayo over Holliday is that I think Mayo would be more likely to sign an extension. Both could, but more likely...
All of that said, the multiverse of trades looms large.