Gunnar Henderson is back in action for Triple-A Norfolk tonight in Charlotte, possibly wrapping up his injury rehab assignment. The Orioles are still weighing their decision on when to bring him back.
So far, Henderson has gone 5-for-16 with two home runs in four games with the Tides. He’s expected to play seven to nine innings tonight. One challenge in reinstating him is Thursday’s 1:05 p.m. game against the Red Sox, which complicates travel logistics. Otherwise, he would likely rejoin the team in Kansas City for the weekend series against the Royals.
“I talked to him yesterday, and he’s feeling really good,” said manager Brandon Hyde. “It’s unfortunate we have a day game tomorrow, but we’ll see where he stands after tonight.”
Henderson injured his right intercostal muscle while catching a line drive from Bo Bichette on Feb. 27 in Sarasota. Although he wasn’t ready for Opening Day, he built up at-bats on the back fields and during his rehab stint. With outfielder Colton Cowser sidelined due to a fractured thumb, the Orioles could use Henderson’s bat back in the lineup.
“It was an unfortunate, fluky play in spring training that tweaked his side, and we just had to give it time to heal,” Hyde said. “Hopefully, tonight goes well.”
Once reinstated, Henderson will return to his usual role as the Orioles’ everyday shortstop and leadoff hitter.
“I don’t know if that will be tomorrow or in Kansas City,” Hyde said, “but he’ll be back up.”
In other team news, Grayson Rodriguez threw a light bullpen session today, following another in Toronto. He has also worked in two “short box” sessions, with the catcher positioned closer to the mound.
Jordan Westburg, leading off again tonight, is feeling “way better,” according to Hyde. Meanwhile, Trevor Rogers and Chayce McDermott are both throwing side sessions.
Tomoyuki Sugano is set to make his next start this weekend despite leaving his debut due to cramping in both hands. Sugano, speaking through his interpreter, mentioned that this has happened before in Japan. Hyde believes hydration is key to prevention.
“It’s a hand cramp, and when I went out there, he couldn’t move his hand very well,” Hyde said. “Now we know, and hopefully we can keep him hydrated.”
Jackson Holliday is sitting out tonight against dominant left-hander Garrett Crochet. Hyde opted for Jorge Mateo at shortstop and Jordan Westburg at second base, though Holliday will see opportunities moving forward.
“Crochet is a tough matchup for any lefty,” Hyde said. “It won’t be every time, but we’ll mix things up. It’s still early in the season. I really liked the swing Holliday took off Sean Newcomb a few days ago—that’s the best left-on-left swing I’ve seen from him in over a year.”