The Baltimore Orioles’ 2025 season is off to a worrying start as injuries to key players have cast uncertainty over the team’s prospects. Fans, who had high hopes following last year’s success, are now grappling with disappointment as updates on star shortstop Gunnar Henderson and other crucial players paint a grim picture.
Henderson’s Injury Looms Over the Season
Superstar shortstop Gunnar Henderson, a cornerstone of the Orioles’ lineup, has been dealing with an intercostal muscle strain since late February. While the injury initially seemed minor, manager Brandon Hyde’s recent update has left fans uneasy. Henderson has resumed some baseball activities, such as light hitting and fielding, but his status for Opening Day remains in doubt.
Henderson, just 23 years old, had a breakout season in 2024, slashing .279/.358/.523 with 37 home runs and 92 RBIs. He was a key factor in Baltimore’s playoff push, earning his first All-Star appearance. Given his offensive power and defensive prowess at shortstop, losing him for any stretch of time could be a significant blow.
Despite his optimism about returning soon, intercostal injuries can be tricky, as they affect the core muscles heavily involved in swinging and throwing. The Orioles are taking a cautious approach to avoid a prolonged absence, knowing that rushing him back could lead to further setbacks.
Grayson Rodriguez’s Injury Further Complicates Matters
As if Henderson’s situation weren’t concerning enough, the Orioles have also been hit with bad news regarding starting pitcher Grayson Rodriguez. The 25-year-old right-hander, expected to be a key piece in the Orioles’ rotation, is set to start the season on the injured list due to elbow and triceps soreness.
Rodriguez impressed in 2024, posting a 13-4 record with a 3.86 ERA and solidifying his role as one of Baltimore’s most reliable pitchers. However, his current condition raises fears about long-term implications. While early evaluations indicate no structural damage to his elbow, the uncertainty surrounding his return leaves Baltimore in a precarious position.
With the Orioles relying on young arms to carry them forward, Rodriguez’s injury puts more pressure on the rest of the pitching staff to step up. If his recovery takes longer than expected, Baltimore could struggle to maintain its competitive edge in a tough AL East division.
Jorge Mateo’s Absence Weakens the Infield
Adding to the Orioles’ woes, utility infielder Jorge Mateo will miss the entire season after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his non-throwing elbow. The injury, sustained in a collision with Henderson last July, forced him out of action for the latter half of 2024. Mateo’s versatility made him a valuable asset, and his absence leaves Baltimore with limited infield depth.
A Cloud of Uncertainty Hangs Over Baltimore
With key players sidelined, the Orioles face an uphill battle to start the 2025 season. While the team remains hopeful that Henderson and Rodriguez will recover soon, fans can’t help but feel a sense of disappointment and uncertainty. If Baltimore is to contend, they will need their stars back—healthy and ready to perform.