The Baltimore Orioles will start the 2025 regular season without star shortstop Gunnar Henderson due to a right side intercostal strain, an injury he picked up on February 27. He has not played since then.

Fortunately, general manager Mike Elias indicated that Henderson’s absence is expected to be limited to “days, not weeks”. This means the Orioles hope he can quickly return after the minimum stay on the injured list.

Henderson, aged 23, is emerging as one of the brightest young players in baseball. Last year, he achieved a .281 batting average with 37 home runs and earned his first All-Star selection. In the meantime, Jackson Holliday may revert to shortstop, while reserve Ramón Urías could take over at second base. With the Orioles coming off a backsliding season, Henderson’s swift return is crucial for the team’s prospects in the AL East.