The Baltimore Orioles kicked off the 2025 season with a lot of buzz and high hopes. And why not? Their young team, fresh off back-to-back playoff appearances, is ready to take the field and make some noise in the American League East. But just when everything was falling into place, disaster struck: Gunnar Henderson sustained an injury to his right intercostal muscle during spring training. Talk about a buzzkill! As it raised a serious question: whether the 23-year-old star infielder would be ready for the start of the season? But, as with every dark cloud, this one has a silver lining too. 

Henderson’s rehab stint with the Norfolk Tides is giving everyone a reason to smile again. He’s been making solid progress, and it looks like he’s regaining his confidence. His comeback isn’t just about filling a roster spot; it’s about restoring the offensive firepower that made him a treasured talent in 2024. His performance in Norfolk, where he recorded a 105.9 MPH single in his first game back, highlights that he is on track to rejoin the Orioles’ lineup soon. However, his comeback raises a bigger question: how will his recovery impact Baltimore’s larger ambitions in the highly competitive AL East?

The major concern in everyone’s mind was whether he could regain his offensive rhythm in time to make an early impact. After all, his numbers from last year—.281/.364/.529 with 37 home runs and 92 RBIs—solidified his status as a premier slugger. An extended absence could significantly weaken the Orioles’ lineup. However, his rehab stint has shown promising signs, with Henderson displaying solid plate discipline and power.

However, his return has done more than just shore up Baltimore’s infield depth—it’s transformed the team’s dynamics. With Henderson back at shortstop, the Orioles no longer have to rely on stopgap options like Jorge Mateo or Nick Gordon for everyday starts. His defensive prowess, combined with his elite bat, has significantly boosted their chances of contending in the fiercely competitive AL East, where they face juggernauts like the New York Yankees and Blue Jays.

While Orioles eagerly await Henderson’s return, they are already celebrating the comeback of star closer Félix Bautista for this season. After missing all of 2024 due to Tommy John surgery, Bautista is ready to make a splash in the 2025 season. Before his injury, he was a force to be reckoned with on the mound, boasting an impressive 8-2 record, a jaw-dropping 1.48 ERA, and a staggering 110 strikeouts in just 61 innings during the 2023 season. He even snagged the American League Reliever of the Year award!

However, Orioles know that their success in 2025 isn’t just about one player. Bautista and Henderson’s comeback is just a couple of pieces of the puzzle; the team’s playoff hopes really depend on keeping their entire young core healthy and performing at their best.

Orioles’ playoff relies on young core staying healthy

If Baltimore aspires to make a deep playoff run in 2025, it needs the entire young core to be healthy and productive. Adley Rutschman, offensive anchor, is expected to build on his 2024 campaign, where he posted a .250 with 19 home runs. Then, their No. 1 prospect, Jackson Holliday, is also gearing up for his first full MLB season. He brings not only elite bat-to-ball skills, but also defensive versatility to the lineup. Meanwhile, Jordan Westburg and Colton Cowser continue to develop into reliable everyday contributors.

With Anthony Santander’s departure already testing their offensive depth, Henderson’s return becomes even more crucial. However, durability remains a concern. Kyle Bradish’s lingering arm issues underscore the risks of a roster relying on a roster built around youth. As their core continues to develop, the Orioles must ensure their rising stars stay on the field. If Henderson, Bautista, Rutschman, and Holliday all perform at their best, Baltimore could make a deep playoff run. Otherwise, 2025 might echo 2023—high expectations but not enough sustained firepower to go the distance.

Gunnar Henderson’s comeback is a crucial boost for the Orioles, strengthening their infield and keeping their playoff hopes alive. But can the team overcome the injury setbacks that have derailed past playoff pushes?