According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Baltimore Orioles may be without All-Star for Opening Day as he recovers from an intercostal strain suffered earlier this month. While he has resumed some baseball activities, including taking swings in the cage and fielding ground balls, Morosi cautioned that time is running short for him to be ready for the start of the season.
“There’s still a chance for him to return in time for the Orioles’ Opening Day lineup, but with his intercostal strain continuing to keep him out of game action, it’s uncertain whether he’ll make it,” Morosi said. He added that while Henderson is making progress, the timeline for his return remains unclear.
Earlier this week, Gunnar Henderson expressed optimism about his recovery, telling MLB Network, “I’m progressing really well. Everything’s feeling good. I got to take some ground balls today and swung a bit more, so we’re moving in the right direction. Now it’s just about getting the at-bats I need to be ready.”
Despite the uncertainty, there’s no indication that Henderson’s injury is a long-term concern. However, his absence would be a significant blow for the Orioles, as the 23-year-old had a stellar season in 2024, playing 159 games and hitting .281/.364/.529 with 37 home runs, 92 RBI, and 21 stolen bases. He also posted an impressive 9.1 WAR and finished fourth in AL MVP voting before the Orioles were swept by the Kansas City Royals in the Wild Card Series.
If Henderson can’t go for Opening Day, he would likely miss the Orioles’ three-game series against the Red Sox at Camden Yards from March 31 to April 3. This would be a big boost for Boston, as Henderson hit .255/.328/.636 with five home runs and 12 RBI in 13 games against them last season.
While Henderson’s absence wouldn’t drastically alter the balance of power in the AL East, it could give the Red Sox an early advantage as they aim to compete in 2025.