Gunnar Henderson, the dynamic shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles, is riding high on inspiration after witnessing the USA men's hockey team clinch gold against Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics. With the World Baseball Classic on the horizon, Henderson has his sights set on an even bigger stage: the 2028 Olympics.
"Watching that hockey game really lit a fire in me," Henderson shared with Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun. "Playing in the Olympics is now a top priority."
The possibility of MLB players participating in the 2028 Games is looking brighter, with MLB commissioner Rob Manfred expressing optimism about their inclusion. Henderson isn't the only one eager to don the red, white, and blue on the Olympic diamond.
Philadelphia Phillies' standout Bryce Harper has also voiced his enthusiasm. Harper, a key player for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, is expected to be instrumental in rallying fellow MLB stars for the Olympic cause.
Baseball's journey in the Olympics has been a rollercoaster. The sport was notably absent from the 2024 Paris Games, and Team USA settled for silver after a tough loss to Japan in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Shane Baz, who pitched for the USA in 2020 and now shares the Orioles' clubhouse with Henderson, knows firsthand the thrill and heartbreak of Olympic competition.
With the prospect of MLB players stepping onto the Olympic stage, the excitement is palpable. The blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars could make the 2028 Games a showcase of baseball brilliance, and Henderson is ready to be part of that legacy.