Orioles GM Names Surprise Example for Gunnar Henderson’s Comeback

Baltimore Orioles general manager Jared Banner cited Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong as an example of player development when discussing how Gunnar Henderson can bounce back. Banner emphasized that the organization does not want to put a ceiling on any player, using Crow-Armstrong's continued growth to highlight that established major-league players can still reach higher developmental levels.

Henderson finished the 2026 season with 24 home runs and a .712 OPS. Statistical analysis noted that Henderson's chase rate rose significantly to 30.4% in 2026 alongside a drop in average exit velocity, making plate discipline and contact quality critical focus areas for his upcoming offseason work.