Orioles infielder Gunnar Henderson decided if he would participate in the Summer Olympics.
As the Baltimore Orioles continue spring preparations, star infielder Gunnar Henderson is already looking beyond the upcoming season and even beyond the World Baseball Classic. With international play becoming an increasingly important stage for baseball’s top talent, Henderson has made it clear that another global event is firmly on his radar.
Henderson, who is already committed to Team USA for the WBC, will soon depart Orioles camp to join a roster loaded with elite talent. That opportunity alone is significant, but it also appears to be just the beginning of his ambitions on the international stage.
Earlier this week, Henderson revealed an even bigger goal.
“That would be super special, being able to get into the Olympics and compete for the gold medal at that point. ... After watching that hockey game, that’s definitely something that’s a top priority,” Henderson said (h/t Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun).
His comments come after Team USA’s men’s hockey team captured a gold medal victory over Canada, a moment that clearly resonated with athletes across different sports. The intensity and pride displayed in that matchup helped reinforce Henderson’s desire to represent his country on another global stage, this time with Olympic stakes.
The significance of Henderson’s interest in the Olympics extends beyond personal ambition. Baseball’s Olympic presence has fluctuated over the years and is still not guaranteed for 2028, making participation both rare and meaningful. For a young player already building an impressive track record, the opportunity to compete for gold would add another layer to his growing legacy.
Henderson has spent his entire career with Baltimore, developing into one of the organization’s most impactful players. Over four seasons, he has established himself as a consistent offensive and defensive force, earning American League Rookie of the Year honors along with an All‑Star selection and a Silver Slugger award.
His 2025 campaign further showcased his well‑rounded skill set. Across 154 games, Henderson posted a .274 batting average with a .349 on‑base percentage and a .787 OPS. He added 17 home runs, 68 RBIs and 30 stolen bases, proving his value as both a power threat and a dynamic baserunner.
Still, there is room for growth. The 17 home runs marked his lowest total in any full season so far, an area he will likely look to improve as he continues developing into an offensive force.
With the WBC approaching and Olympic aspirations now public, Henderson’s focus remains split between immediate competition and long‑term goals. For the Orioles and Team USA alike, his trajectory continues to point upward.