Gunnar Henderson’s Road to Recovery
According to Baltimore Orioles manager Brandon Hyde, Gunnar Henderson, the team’s superstar shortstop, is on track to return to the field soon after experiencing “right side discomfort” that led to his early exit from a recent game. While the Orioles have described the move as precautionary, they are ensuring a careful approach to his recovery. Andy Kostka of the Baltimore Banner shared on social media that Henderson is just a few days away from resuming baseball activities, showing signs of improvement from his discomfort.
A Stellar Performer
At 23 years old, the Alabama native Gunnar Henderson showcased his exceptional talent last season by earning an All-Star title with an impressive 9.1 WAR. His 37 home runs played a pivotal role in leading the Orioles to a commendable second-place finish in the American League East, securing a spot in the playoffs. Alongside his home runs, Henderson maintained a batting average of .281, with 92 RBIs and 21 stolen bases to his name. Notably, he was honored with a Silver Slugger award and ranked fourth in the American League MVP voting, following Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., and Juan Soto. Henderson’s contribution to the Orioles lineup is invaluable, making his timely return crucial for the team.
A Potential MVP Contender
As Henderson enters his fourth major league season, expectations are high for him to emerge as a strong MVP candidate in the American League. With a lifetime batting average of .268 and 69 homers already under his belt, his partnership with Adley Rutchman solidifies one of the most promising young duos in baseball. The absence of Anthony Santander, who departed for the Toronto Blue Jays in free agency, further emphasizes Henderson’s importance in the Orioles’ lineup.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles are gearing up for Grapefruit League play over the next three weeks before kicking off the regular season on March 27 against the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite the challenges faced last season, including the last-place finish in the AL East, the team is optimistic about the upcoming season with Gunnar Henderson’s impending return.
For more updates and coverage on baseball, follow Fastball on FanNation on social media channels. Brady Farkas, a seasoned baseball writer for Fastball on Sports Illustrated/FanNation and the host of ‘The Payoff Pitch’ podcast, provides in-depth insights into the world of baseball through various platforms. Stay tuned for the latest developments in the world of baseball as the season unfolds.
