Gunnar Henderson’s breakout 2024 marketing campaign continued on Wednesday, as he handed a legendary Corridor of Famer to make Baltimore Orioles historical past whereas additionally etching his identify onto a number of shortlists.
Main off towards the Chicago White Sox, Henderson recorded residence run No. 35 on the season, smashing a 3-1 cutter from starter Jonathan Cannon 402 toes into the middle subject stands at Camden Yards. With it, the All-Star handed Miguel Tejada (2004) and Cal Ripken Jr. (1991) for probably the most by an Orioles shortstop in a single season.
In the meantime, Henderson is just the seventh participant in baseball historical past to publish the stat line whereas taking part in 100% of their video games at shortstop. Per Stathead, he joins Trevor Story (2019, 2018), Alex Rodriguez (2002, 2000, 1999, 1996), Wealthy Aurilia (2001), Nomar Garciaparra (1998), Ernie Banks (1960, 1959, 1958, 1955) and Vern Stephens (1949).
Nevertheless, carrying out the feat at Henderson’s age is even rarer. The one different participant, 23 years previous or youthful, to complete a season with a minimum of 35 lengthy balls and 84 RBI whereas taking part in each recreation at SS is Rodriguez, who did it twice (1999, 1996).
Final yr, Henderson earned American League Rookie of the 12 months honors and was a 2023 Silver Slugger Award winner. Nevertheless, he is as soon as once more the most effective shortstops in all of MLB this season, rating first on the place in walks (70) and homers (35) whereas trailing solely Kansas Metropolis Royals standout Bobby Witt Jr. in on-base share (.367), slugging share (.539) and OPS (.906), in response to MLB.com.
