In 2023, Gunnar Henderson wasn’t just another rookie—he was a revelation. 28 home runs, elite defense, AL Rookie of the Year. In 2024, he leveled up, anchoring the Orioles with a .275 average, 30 bombs, and Gold Glove-worthy defense. But as Opening Day 2025 nears, his biggest opponent isn’t on the mound. This time, the challenge is coming from within—his own body.

The Orioles kicked off spring training with high expectations, but injuries are throwing a wrench into their Opening Day plans. One of the biggest question marks? Gunnar Henderson. While the 23-year-old shortstop is back to baseball activities, MLB analyst Jon Morosi isn’t convinced he’ll be ready for the season opener.

Henderson’s injury occurred during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays, where he experienced discomfort after making a leaping catch. Turns out, it’s a mild intercostal strain on his right side, an injury that can be tricky to manage. The Orioles’ medical staff isn’t taking any chances, prioritizing caution over a rushed return.

Morosi recently addressed the situation, stating, “There is still a chance for Gunnar Henderson to get back and be part of the Orioles’ Opening Day lineup, but time is short because he continues to deal with an intercostal strain that has recently held him out of game action.” Jon Morosi further adds, “The Orioles have had somewhat of an injury-plagued spring… it’s hard to think of a more important player to the Orioles than Gunnar Henderson, and again, he is very much uncertain for Opening Day.”

If Henderson misses Opening Day, it’ll be a major blow for the Orioles—especially since he’s not the only one dealing with setbacks. Starting pitcher Grayson Rodriguez is already expected to start the season on the injured list due to elbow and triceps soreness. And then there’s Jorge Mateo, who’s recovering from elbow surgery and probably won’t have enough at-bats to be game-ready by March 27.

This feels all too familiar for Baltimore. The second half of the 2024 season was also derailed by injuries to key players like Jordan Westburg, Ryan Mountcastle, Ramón Urías, and Mateo, leading to a 33-33 record post All-Star break. Now, with Opening Day around the corner, the Orioles will need to find answers fast.

How will the Orioles manage without Gunnar Henderson?

If Henderson isn’t ready by Opening Day, the Orioles will have to reshuffle their infield. Ramon Urias looks like the front-runner to step in at shortstop. He won a Gold Glove at third base in 2022, so the glove work isn’t an issue. The real question? His bat. Urias has a solid .272/.335/.406 career slash line, but he doesn’t bring the same power or offensive upside that Henderson does.

Another name in the mix is top prospect Jackson Holliday. But after a rough rookie season, there are some big question marks. In 60 games, the 21-year-old hit just .189 and struck out in over 30% of his at-bats. The 2022 No. 1 overall pick is still a crucial piece of Baltimore’s future, but he’ll need a strong spring to prove he’s ready. Meanwhile, the Orioles added Luis Vázquez from the Cubs in January, a 25-year-old infielder with experience at short, third, and second.

“The great ones don’t just play the game—they set the tone for everyone around them.” That’s what Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. once said. Right now, the Orioles need someone to step up and set that tone. Will the Orioles fight through adversity, or will this be a sign of bigger struggles ahead? One thing’s for sure. The 2025 season is starting with a challenge, and Baltimore needs an answer. Fast.