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Baltimore Orioles and former Morgan Academy shortstop Gunnar Henderson received one of the biggest achievements in his life on Feb. 8.

Governor Kay Ivey declared the day as Gunnar Henderson Day across Alabama and made the announcement before her State of the State address. 

Henderson was also recognized by the State Senate and House of Representatives.

Ivey signed the proclamation, honoring Henderson for being named American League Rookie of the Year in 2023. Ivey also mentioned Henderson’s accomplishments in high school and the honor he received as the 2022 Minor League Player of the Year.

“Mr. Henderson’s exemplary character serves as an inspiration to young athletes across Alabama, demonstrating my three C’s of what makes a well-rounded leader-character, competence and commitment,” Ivey wrote in the proclamation.

Henderson’s family, parents Allen Henderson and Kerry Henderson, brothers Jackson Henderson and Cade Henderson attended the ceremony. 

Rep. Prince Chestnut was also present and said he is proud of what Henderson accomplished. Chestnut introduced Henderson at the event.

“Gunnar Henderson’s accomplishments on the baseball field are already legendary,” Chestnut said. “However, he strikes me as an even more remarkable young man off the field. He is respectful, humble, and comes from a great family. It was my honor to both host Gunnar and his family as well as to suspend the rules to allow the House of Representatives to bring special recognition to him in the form of a House resolution.”

Henderson, the Selma Times-Journal baseball player of the year in 2019, helped lead the Orioles to the AL East Division title and the AL’s best record.  Henderson led all AL rookies with 28 homers, 82 RBIs, and 100 runs playing shortstop and third base.