Injury: Henderson suffered a right intercostal strain on Feb. 27, placing him on the IL to start the season.
Rehab Success: During his assignment with Triple-A Norfolk, Henderson looked sharp, going 5-for-16 with two home runs across four games.
Imminent Return: Henderson is expected back either Thursday against the Red Sox or Friday for the series opener in Kansas City. The timing hinges partly on travel logistics following Norfolk's Wednesday night game and the Orioles' Thursday afternoon start.
Expected Role: Manager Brandon Hyde confirmed Henderson will resume his duties as the everyday shortstop and leadoff hitter upon his return.
Why this matters: Henderson's return provides a major offensive lift and defensive stability for the Orioles, especially important with other players like outfielder Colton Cowser (fractured thumb) currently sidelined. Teammates have expressed excitement, with Ryan O'Hearn calling Henderson "one of the best players in the world."
The Orioles started the 2025 season 3-3, including a recent 3-0 shutout loss to the Boston Red Sox where newly extended pitcher Garrett Crochet dominated Baltimore's lineup. This early stretch has highlighted the team's need for consistent offensive production. Gunnar Henderson's return is highly anticipated to address this need.
Henderson's injury, a right intercostal strain from catching a line drive in spring training, kept him out of the opening games. His rehab stint in Norfolk, however, demonstrated he's ready for MLB action, smashing two homers and taking quality at-bats. Manager Brandon Hyde noted Henderson is "feeling really good."
While the exact return date was uncertain due to the quick turnaround between Norfolk's Wednesday night game and Baltimore's Thursday day game, Hyde indicated Henderson would rejoin the team in Kansas City on Friday at the latest. His presence at shortstop and the top of the order significantly deepens the Orioles' lineup and strengthens their infield defense. Outfielder Dylan Carlson remarked on Henderson's rehab swings, stating, "Obviously, a special talent... he's going to do some pretty cool things." His return is crucial as the team navigates early-season injuries, including those to Grayson Rodriguez (rehabbing) and Tomoyuki Sugano (hand cramps in recent start, but expected to be fine).
Q: What injury did Gunnar Henderson have?
A: Henderson suffered a right intercostal strain while making a defensive play during spring training on February 27th.
Q: How did Henderson perform during his rehab assignment?
A: He performed well, batting 5-for-16 (.313) with two home runs in four games for the Triple-A Norfolk Tides.
Q: When is Gunnar Henderson expected to return to the Orioles lineup?
A: He is expected to return either Thursday, April 3rd against the Red Sox or Friday, April 4th, when the Orioles begin a series in Kansas City.
Henderson's return significantly strengthens the Orioles' offense and defense.
Expect Henderson to slot back into the leadoff spot and play shortstop regularly.
His comeback provides a much-needed boost as the team deals with other key injuries early in the season.
Fans can look forward to seeing one of baseball's dynamic young talents back in action.
Henderson's return is a positive development for the Orioles. Do you think his presence will be enough to spark a winning streak for the team? Let us know!
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Source 1: Thursday Bird Droppings: Gunnar Henderson could make his return today - Camden Chat `target="_blank"`
Source 2: Orioles Shortstop Ready for Strong Return After Rehab Assignment - SI.com `target="_blank"` (Note: Actual URL might differ, placeholder used as original wasn't fully provided)
Source 3: Orioles injury updates on Henderson, Rodriguez, Sugano and more - MASN Sports `target="_blank"` (Note: Actual URL might differ, placeholder used as original wasn't fully provided)
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