Gunnar Henderson to Start 2025 Season on Injured List

SARASOTA, Fla. — Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson will begin the 2025 regular season on the injured list due to a strained intercostal muscle, general manager Mike Elias announced Sunday. Henderson, 23, suffered the injury on February 27 and has not played in a game since.

Henderson’s absence raises questions for the Orioles as they prepare for their season opener against the Toronto Blue Jays. Manager Brandon Hyde conveyed a cautious optimism regarding Henderson’s recovery, stating that the team aims to avoid extending his absence into the longer term. “It’s definitely something we don’t want to linger into the season and throughout the season,” Hyde said. “He’s so important to us. We want to make sure he’s right and not playing through any sort of injury or soreness at the start of the season.”

The young star had a standout season in 2024, hitting .281 with 37 home runs, earning an All-Star selection and finishing fourth in American League MVP voting. Henderson’s powerful performance contributed significantly to the Orioles’ playoff run last year, making his swift recovery crucial for the team’s competitive aspirations in the AL East.

In addition to Henderson, closer Félix Bautista‘s availability for Opening Day remains uncertain. Hyde stated that the team continues to assess Bautista, who has been recovering after undergoing surgery last season. “We haven’t solidified anything there yet,” Hyde noted. Bautista has pitched in four spring training games but showed reduced velocity, raising concerns among the coaching staff.

If Henderson is unable to return quickly, Orioles may utilize Jackson Holliday at shortstop. Holliday’s versatility and performance in the spring training games have positioned him as a prime candidate to fill in. Meanwhile, non-roster invitees Liván Soto and Luis Vázquez have also demonstrated solid skills, with Soto batting .395 this spring.

The Orioles are cautiously optimistic about Henderson’s prognosis. Elias mentioned that they hope the injury will not result in a prolonged absence: “We’re hopeful it’s days, not weeks.” Should Henderson remain on the injured list, his absence may impact the team’s dynamic as they open the season against a formidable Blue Jays roster.

The team is eager for Henderson’s return, as he plays a pivotal role in their lineup, which also includes other young talents such as Holliday. Baltimore fans are hoping for a quick recovery for Henderson, who has averaged a remarkable 7.6 WAR per 162 games in his career thus far.