Baltimore, MD – According to the Baltimore Sun, Gunnar Henderson, the star shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles, expressed mild disappointment over his limited playing time during the World Baseball Classic (WBC) while representing Team USA. Henderson spoke to the media on Friday, marking his first comments since returning to Orioles spring training in Sarasota, Florida.
Henderson participated in the WBC championship game against Venezuela but spent much of the tournament on the bench, starting only three of Team USA’s seven games. Despite the limited opportunities, he delivered strong performances when he did play, concluding the event with a .400 batting average and a 1.267 OPS, leading Team USA in those categories. Among all players with at least 15 at-bats in the tournament, Henderson ranked fifth in OPS.
The 24-year-old infielder acknowledged the competitor within him desired more action. “I wish I could have gotten in there a little bit more,” Henderson said. “But just wasn’t the way the cards came out.” He emphasized his hope to earn more playing time in future international competitions, including another WBC appearance.
Team USA manager Mark DeRosa’s lineup decisions drew scrutiny from Maryland fans and analysts. DeRosa often opted for Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman and Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang over Henderson, even as the Orioles star demonstrated offensive prowess. In pool play, Henderson went 4-for-5 with a double, two RBIs, and four batted balls exceeding 105 mph in his first start, followed by a home run in his second.
Teammate Jordan Westburg voiced support on social media after Henderson’s standout game, posting, “Keep that man in the lineup.” Other Orioles players echoed similar sentiments ahead of the final. Positioning challenges influenced DeRosa’s choices; Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., considered one of baseball’s elite, anchored the infield at shortstop, while Henderson’s versatility includes over 750 innings at third base in the majors.
In the quarterfinals against Canada, Henderson was benched, but DeRosa adjusted the lineup versus the Dominican Republic, where Henderson entered 7-for-9 lifetime against starter Luis Severino. He responded with a game-tying solo home run. However, DeRosa reverted to Bregman for the championship, citing strategic matchups against left-handed hitting.
Despite the bench time, Henderson viewed the WBC positively. “It was a great experience,” he stated, highlighting the chance to build relationships with veteran players and represent his country. He described the event’s intensity as comparable to playoff atmospheres, noting the relentless crowd energy with no silent moments.
Henderson, who debuted in the majors in 2023, has established himself as a cornerstone for the Orioles. Over the past three seasons, he ranks fourth in MLB in wins above replacement (WAR), trailing only Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Bobby Witt Jr., per Baseball-Reference data. This statistic underscores his value to the franchise and Maryland‘s sports landscape.
Returning to camp on Thursday, Henderson joined the team for a road game in Tampa against the New York Yankees and Max Fried. He rested Friday and is expected to start Saturday as he ramps up for the regular season opener. The 15 at-bats from the WBC, though few, provided valuable high-leverage practice. “It gives me confidence going into the year,” Henderson said, affirming the execution of his game plans under pressure.
The Orioles, coming off a strong 2025 campaign, continue spring training preparations at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. Henderson’s WBC experience, including an example of his clutch home run against the Dominican Republic, bolsters his readiness for another impactful season at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. For more information, visit Baltimore Sun.