Gunnar Henderson enjoyed first appearance in MLB All-star game
Published 9:00 pm Tuesday, July 16, 2024
- Todd Olszewski/Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson made his first-ever appearance in the Major League Baseball All-Star game on Tuesday night at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.
The former Morgan Academy Prep All-American went 0-for-2 as the American League beat the National League 5-3 before a FOX TV Audience. Henderson grounded out twice before being replaced in the fifth inning.
Despite going hitless in two at-bats, Henderson told MLB.com that he loved the moment and wants to make this an annual event. Henderson enters the All-Star break with 28 homers and 60 RBI.
“I’ve enjoyed the process that I’ve gone through so far, but looking forward to the years to come,” Henderson said.
Triple-A Norfolk manager Buck Britton coached Henderson, 23, in the minor leagues and served as his pitcher in the derby. Britton said he’s amazed at the talent level of Henderson, a 2019 graduate of Morgan Academy.
“Every level he’s ever gone to, he’s figured out how to dominate that level,” Britton told MLB.com. “He’s doing it again. And he’s a great kid. That’s the other thing, is he’s a superstar on the field and he’s a great kid off the field.”
The next step for Henderson is leading the Orioles to a second straight AL East Division championship. Baltimore has a one-game over the New York Yankees, with the Boston Red Sox just 4 1/2 games back.