Baltimore Orioles Star is Living Up to the Hype in the World Baseball Classic

The World Baseball Classic this year is unlike anything we have ever seen. The intensity, passion and storylines surrounding this event has turned this tournament into something more than just a game, but instead a way of life for both the fans and players. 

It's not everyday you get to see players like Paul Skenes face-off against the powerhouse lineup that is the Dominican Republic, but thanks to this tournament, we got to see that last night. 

Hidden beneath the surface of all the tournament hype is a hungry and motivated 24 year-old shortstop from Montgomery, Alabama who cemented his legacy in United States baseball last night. 

When the Baltimore Orioles drafted Gunnar Henderson with the 42nd overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, they knew exactly the type of player they would be getting. Henderson projected as a possible five tool player with natural power and fielding skills, however, his game needed a lot of refining as he was drafted out of high school and was still extremely raw. 

However, one thing that Baltimore never doubted was his drive and passion for the game of baseball. 

Fast forward seven years, and Henderson is one of the MLB's best players, and was even asked to play for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic in which he accepted. 

On MLB TV's "Foul Territory", Henderson was asked what it meant to represent the United States in the World Baseball Classic prior to their matchup with the Dominican Republic on Sunday: 

"It's a very special event and moment for me...gotta wear it with a lot of honor and respect," said Henderson. 

Little did Henderson know that on that same day, he'd cement himself in United States baseball history. 

The United States had their backs up against the wall early, as Tampa Bay Rays phenom Junior Caminero took Paul Skenes deep in the 2nd inning, giving the Dominican Republic a 1-0 lead. 

The United States needed to get something going and fast, so the 24 year-old Henderson decided that this would be his moment. 

Henderson led off the top of the 4th inning for the United States, and would face Dominican pitcher Luis Severino for the second time in this game. Henderson has had a lot of success off Severino in his career, as he's gone 7-for-9 with one home-run against the veteran pitcher in his career. 

Henderson would go down in the count 0-2, but would fight hard to stay alive. After staying patient against sweepers and fighting off an array of fastballs, Henderson would work an eight pitch at-bat full. On that ninth pitch, Henderson knew exactly what to do with it. 

Henderson not only tied the game and knocked Severino out, but he jolted the United States with newfound energy that they have been significantly lacking throughout the tournament. 

The 24 year-olds home-run sent shockwaves throughout the building, as his teammates and fans would feed off of his energy going forward. Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony would be the first player to feed off Henderson's energy, as two at-bats later he would give the United States the lead with a solo home-run of his own. 

It's extremely rare to see a player like Henderson (who's making his WBC debut) set a good example for the veterans on the team. It goes to show how elite of a player, and leader Henderson is at such a young age. 

The United States are now headed to the World Baseball Classic championship for the third time in a row, in large part to Henderson's elite tournament. 

In only 14 at-bats, Henderson has gone 6-for-14 (.429) with two home-runs and four RBI's, which is good for a 1.357 OPS. 

Seeing a 24 year-old perform at such a high level on one of the biggest stages in the baseball is extremely encouraging to see. If Henderson can carry over this confidence and play into the regular season, Baltimore has an MVP candidate on their hands.