The Baltimore Orioles received some tough news on Saturday regarding their infield, and shortstop Gunnar Henderson didn't mince words about third baseman Jordan Westburg's injury. Westburg is facing a partial UCL tear in his elbow, sidelining him until at least May. This development has hit the clubhouse hard, with Henderson, who shares a close bond with Westburg, expressing the collective sentiment.
Henderson and Westburg trained together over the winter, anticipating they’d anchor the left side of the infield once the season started. That plan is now on pause, and Henderson's concern is more about his friend’s well-being than any lineup adjustments. For a team with postseason ambitions, starting the season without Westburg, a former Mississippi State standout, presents a real challenge, but Henderson’s words highlight that the human element takes precedence.
Reflecting on the situation, Henderson shared his thoughts: “It sucks,” he said. “He works his butt off.
I hate it for him because I know he just wants to be out there on the field. That’s all he wants to do, playing out there with the guys.
Praying the shot works and he gets out there soon.”
Henderson’s heartfelt message resonates with many in the organization, as Westburg has faced multiple injury setbacks. Given Henderson’s own history with spring injuries, his empathy is palpable in a camp already dealing with health issues among several young players. Losing a cornerstone like Westburg is a blow, but it also presents an opportunity for the team to rally around him, as Henderson’s quote captures.
For the Orioles, the immediate concern is who will fill those innings and how the depth will hold. But for Henderson, the priority is clear and personal-seeing his friend healthy and back on the field, doing what he loves.