Gunnar Henderson Eyes Bounce-Back Season After Playing Through Shoulder Injury

During a difficult 2025 campaign for the Baltimore Orioles, Gunnar Henderson’s struggles at the plate were one of the few manageable storylines. The 24-year-old, who previously earned consecutive top-10 finishes in AL MVP voting, was hampered by a shoulder impingement for much of the season, he revealed on WBAL Radio’s Orioles Hot Stove Show. Despite this limitation, Henderson remained one of Baltimore’s most productive hitters, slashing .274/.349/.438/.787 with 17 home runs, 34 doubles, and 30 stolen bases.

Henderson candidly acknowledged the impact of the injury on his swing. “I could never get to the spot that I wanted to get to with my swing, but no excuse,” he said. “Just had to play through it and felt like I still, with all those circumstances, put up a decent year. Looking forward to being healthy this year and getting back to my normal self.” His admission clarifies why his numbers dipped compared to his MVP-contending seasons, offering reassurance to fans about his long-term potential.

The revelation also raises questions about the organization’s handling of player health. While some may critique management for allowing a franchise cornerstone to play through discomfort, Henderson’s effort underscores the commitment fans expect from their star player, even during a losing campaign.

Looking ahead, Henderson is optimistic about a return to form in 2026. With offseason acquisitions like Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward, the Orioles’ lineup will provide more protection, potentially allowing Henderson to produce at an elite level once fully healthy.

1. The Toll of the 2025 Season

The 2025 season was a disappointment on multiple fronts for Baltimore. The team struggled in the standings, while Henderson contended with lingering shoulder issues that limited his swing mechanics and power potential. Despite this, he still managed to steal 30 bases, demonstrating that his athleticism and speed remained intact. Henderson’s slash line of .274/.349/.438 illustrates that even a compromised version of the shortstop can contribute significantly. His 17 home runs and 34 doubles are evidence of his ability to produce extra-base hits, while his on-base percentage reflects disciplined plate approach under physical constraints. Playing through injury is never ideal, but Henderson’s durability and professionalism helped stabilize the Orioles’ lineup in a season full of uncertainty. He provided leadership and consistency in the middle of the order, even when the team’s pitching and supporting cast faltered. Fans and analysts alike now have a clearer understanding of why Henderson’s 2025 production fell short of expectations, which may temper criticism while increasing anticipation for a healthy rebound in the upcoming season.

2. Looking Toward 2026

If Henderson enters spring training fully healthy, he is positioned to reclaim his status among the league’s top offensive shortstops. His combination of power, speed, and on-base skills gives Baltimore a dynamic presence at the top of the lineup. The offseason additions of Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward provide added protection, meaning opposing pitchers may be forced to pitch to Henderson more carefully. This could translate into more favorable counts, better pitches to hit, and ultimately, higher offensive production. Health remains the key factor. Henderson’s shoulder impingement in 2025 limited his ability to fully extend and generate torque on his swing. With proper offseason recovery and conditioning, he could reach or exceed the performance levels that made him an MVP candidate in previous seasons. Baltimore’s coaching staff and front office are likely counting on Henderson to be a cornerstone around which the team rebuilds and competes in 2026. His full return could make the Orioles’ lineup one of the most dynamic in the American League.

3. Fan and Organizational Outlook

Henderson’s revelation provides reassurance to Orioles fans who may have worried about his long-term durability. His commitment to playing through pain and still contributing at a high level reinforces his status as a team leader and a cornerstone of the franchise. The team enters spring training with optimism, not just because of Henderson, but due to a busy and productive offseason. Baltimore’s lineup improvements, combined with a healthy Henderson, suggest the Orioles could be more competitive in 2026 than they were last year. While pitching depth and rotation health remain concerns, having Henderson at full strength offers a foundation on which to build. His ability to influence games both at the plate and on the basepaths will be a major factor in how the Orioles perform. Fans can expect to see a rejuvenated Gunnar Henderson when the Orioles arrive in Sarasota, Florida, with the potential for a standout season that restores him to MVP-level performance.