Gunnar Henderson revealed that a right wrist injury affected him for much of the 2026 season after the Baltimore Orioles were eliminated from postseason contention.
Henderson told reporters Friday that he has been dealing with the wrist issue for more than half the season. He said modifications to his bat helped him continue playing despite the injury.
The Orioles shortstop also indicated that he does not expect to need surgery this offseason, providing an important piece of information as Baltimore begins looking toward 2027.
Henderson’s health provides additional context for a difficult offensive season. The 25-year-old entered 2026 after establishing himself as one of Baltimore’s most important offensive players, but his production dropped significantly this year.
MLB lists Henderson at a .226 batting average with a .310 on-base percentage and .405 slugging percentage. He has 24 home runs, 27 doubles, six triples and 60 RBI across 157 games.
The wrist issue may help explain at least part of the offensive decline, although Henderson did not suggest that it was the only factor behind his numbers. He continued to play nearly every day despite the problem.
Henderson has still provided some power, reaching 24 home runs after hitting 37 in 2024. His 2026 numbers, however, are well below the level he established during his previous two seasons.
Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
The Orioles now have an offseason to determine how much rest Henderson needs and how his wrist responds without the demands of a major-league schedule. Avoiding surgery should give Baltimore some optimism heading into the winter.
For Henderson, the priority is straightforward: get healthy and find a way back to the player the Orioles know he can be.
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