Gunnar Henderson is preparing for his fifth season in Baltimore.
The Baltimore Orioles are preparing for what they hope will be a breakthrough campaign in 2026, and the organization has made it clear who they view as the centerpiece of their ambitions.
Gunnar Henderson has quickly emerged as one of MLB’s most dynamic young superstars, and the Orioles used the offseason to highlight his impact with a message that resonated across the fan base.
Henderson’s rise has been marked by rapid growth since his big‑league debut in 2022. Drafted in the second round of the 2019 MLB Draft, the 24‑year‑old shortstop was immediately recognized for his athleticism and power potential.
By 2023, he had blossomed into a full‑time contributor, hitting 28 home runs and driving in 82 runs while earning unanimous American League Rookie of the Year honors. That performance set the stage for his ascent into one of the league’s premier talents.
On Monday, the Orioles summed up that trajectory with a message that captured his value. “Impact performer. Since 2023, Henderson’s 20.5 bWAR ranks fourth among all MLB position players 💪,” the team wrote on X.
For context, bWAR is a comprehensive statistic that measures a player’s total value compared to a replacement‑level alternative. Ranking fourth among all position players since 2023 places Henderson firmly among the elite, underscoring how much he has contributed to Baltimore’s success.
That statement highlights just how valuable Henderson has been not only to the Orioles but to the sport as a whole. His blend of power, speed and defensive versatility has made him a fixture in the lineup and a player who consistently ranks among the game’s best.
In 2024, Henderson elevated his game further, posting career highs with 37 home runs, 92 RBIs and a .281 batting average. He earned his first All‑Star selection and finished fourth in American League MVP voting, cementing his place among baseball’s brightest players.
Even in 2025, when injuries and team struggles impacted Baltimore’s overall performance, Henderson remained productive, hitting .274 with 17 home runs and 30 stolen bases.
Entering 2026, Henderson agreed to a one‑year, $8.5 million contract to avoid arbitration, a record figure for a first‑year arbitration‑eligible player in Baltimore. The deal reflects both his accomplishments and the franchise’s commitment to keeping him at the heart of its plans.
For the Orioles, Henderson represents more than just numbers. He is a leader in the clubhouse, a fan favorite and a symbol of the team’s future. As Baltimore looks to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season, the message shared about Henderson serves as both recognition of his past achievements and a reminder of the standard he has set for the years ahead.
With Henderson anchoring the lineup, the Orioles believe they have the foundation to contend in the American League for years to come.