Scouting Report: Gunnar Henderson

Summary

Gunnar Henderson, 25-year-old Baltimore Orioles shortstop, is experiencing a significant early-season slump in 2026. Through approximately 46 games, he is batting .214/.269/.423 with a 91-95 wRC+, well below his career standards. Henderson has been in a month-long funk marked by a 16-game home run drought (last HR on April 26), elevated strikeout rate (31%), and particularly poor performance with two strikes (.076 BA). He missed time with an oblique injury early in the season. Despite these struggles, Henderson has shown signs of adjusting his approach, simplifying his swing and focusing on tracking pitches better. He went 4-for-5 with a home run against Washington on May 18, suggesting potential recovery. Henderson acknowledges the struggles publicly and is working intensively to correct mechanical and mental issues at the plate.