The Baltimore Orioles might be without one of their top players when they face the Toronto Blue Jays.
The Playmaker has been sidelined for a while due to a right intercostal strain, managing just six spring training at-bats before the injury. Recent reports suggest he has started easing back into baseball activities, and the All-Star shortstop is aiming for a return on March 27 for the domestic opening day.
However, his progress remains a concern. While he is making strides, spring training is nearing its end, and the 23-year-old still needs more at-bats to be fully prepared for the regular season.
Manager Brandon Hyde provided an update via Roch Kubatko of MASN Sports, acknowledging the challenge of getting Henderson ready in time. “It’s gonna be really tough. You’ve got to get some at-bats. Hopefully, we can get him in games sometime soon. But he needs to get at-bats and feel good before we make that decision,” Hyde said, adding that Henderson is still “a little bit away from game activity.”
This isn’t the news the Orioles or their fans were hoping for.
The 2022 American League Rookie of the Year is coming off a stellar season, posting a .281/.364/.529 slash line with 37 home runs, 92 RBI, and 118 runs scored over 159 games, accumulating 9.1 Wins Above Replacement. He has established himself as one of the league’s top shortstops, and his absence would be a significant blow to Baltimore’s lineup.
Fortunately, the Orioles have options to fill the void.
Jackson Holliday is the most likely candidate to shift to shortstop, which would open up second base. Jordan Westburg could slide over to that spot, though Ramon Urias is also a viable alternative.
Another option is Jorge Mateo, who recently returned to action after elbow surgery ended his 2024 season. While he still needs time to adjust, second base is his natural position, making him a potential replacement while Holliday anchors the infield in Henderson’s absence.
The Orioles remain hopeful that Henderson will be ready for opening day, but with each passing day, that possibility seems more uncertain.