Gunnar Henderson’s latest injury issue is showing Orioles that they may have real problem

Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson revealed he battled through a wrist injury during the 2026 season, which followed a 2025 campaign affected by a shoulder impingement. Matthew Swigonski of Birds Watcher argues that Henderson's tendency to play through injuries has contributed to his steep two-year regression and poses a growing dilemma for the franchise.

Henderson posted career lows in 2026 with a .226/.311/.404 slash line and a 102 wRC+ while hitting 24 home runs. Swigonski suggests the Orioles must become more proactive in managing the shortstop's health rather than letting him push through pain, warning that continuing to do so risks further physical harm and hurts the team's postseason ambitions.