MLB Rumors: Bombshell Report Dropped Regarding Orioles & Gunnar Henderson

May 30, 2025
Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson in at bat during 2025 game.

The Baltimore Orioles’ rocky 2025 season just got even more complicated. 

With their playoff hopes already fading and questions swirling around the roster, insider Jon Heyman dropped a bombshell: the Orioles made a run at extending Gunnar Henderson this spring—but their offer was turned down. While it wasn’t deemed a “terrible” offer, Henderson passed, potentially indicating long-term trouble for Baltimore’s young cornerstone.

Heyman revealed that Orioles ownership personally sat down with Henderson in an effort to lock up the 23-year-old star shortstop. It was the kind of proactive move fans hoped for under new owner David Rubenstein. But while the attempt itself was a positive step, the rejection raises eyebrows. If Baltimore can’t lock up its brightest talent early, the risk of losing him down the road grows significantly.

Contract Talks Could Get Complicated Fast

Henderson is under club control through 2028 and won’t hit arbitration until 2026, so the Orioles technically have time. But that clock ticks faster when your franchise player posts MVP-caliber seasons like he did in 2024. The longer Baltimore waits, the more expensive any potential deal could become, especially if Henderson racks up more accolades.

If early offers don’t align with what Henderson believes he’s worth, there’s also a risk of souring future negotiations. Arbitration battles can strain relationships, and a front office viewed as cautious or hesitant might struggle to keep star players long-term. Henderson, with his elite bat and growing leadership presence, will have no shortage of suitors when free agency finally arrives.

Orioles Must Choose: Spend Now or Risk Losing Their Star

The failed spring extension attempt may not doom the Orioles, but it should serve as a warning. They can’t afford to repeat past mistakes by undervaluing franchise talent. Locking up Henderson—and ideally Adley Rutschman—should be at the top of Baltimore’s to-do list if they want to compete deep into the future.

With the fan base clamoring for real investment and Rubenstein’s ownership promising a new era, this moment might be more critical than it seems. An extension may still be possible, but the longer it takes, the steeper the price.

Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

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