Gunnar Henderson’s Bold Bid for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic
Okay, but like…Gunnar Henderson really wants in on Team USA’s WBC roster. The Baltimore Orioles’ dynamic third baseman—fresh off an All-Star nod in 2024—told MLB Network on May 21, 2025, that he “definitely” plans to suit up for his country when the World Baseball Classic rolls around next spring. In a breezy chat filled with offhand confidence, Henderson dropped that he’s already penciled in extra offseason reps and envisioned clutching the Stars and Stripes jersey during the tournament’s opening ceremonies.
Henderson’s claim isn’t just bravado. According to an official USA Baseball press release, the organization has invited only top-flight talents who’ve proven their mettle in MLB—so Henderson checks that box. The 23-year-old slugger, who rocketed through Baltimore’s farm system after being picked ninth overall in the 2019 draft, is coming off a breakout 2024 season: .278 average, 27 homers, 92 RBI, plus a slick .358 on-base percentage. Per ESPN’s scouting report, his blend of power and range at the hot corner makes him a modern-day unicorn.
Teammates and coaches aren’t surprised by his ambition. Orioles manager Brandon Hyde told People Magazine that “Gunnar’s competitive fire is next level,” and that the club trusts him to shoulder extra reps if it means getting international experience. Over on USA Today, baseball analyst Jessica Mendoza pointed out that Henderson’s youth and upside would inject fresh energy into a Team USA lineup that’s leaned on veterans like Mike Trout and Trea Turner in past Classics.
Of course, there’s a catch: roster spots are limited, and Team USA’s coaching staff must balance proven stars with hungry newcomers. Head coach Mark DeRosa recently said in a press briefing that “chemistry matters as much as numbers,” hinting that Henderson’s club-house swagger could tip the scales in his favor—if he keeps racking up big moments in Baltimore this summer.
As for qualifiers, USA Baseball opens its window in March 2026, giving Henderson plenty of time to secure his spot—or risk being an alternate. His next challenge? Shoring up defensive consistency and avoiding the slumps that briefly haunted him in early 2025. Scouts will be watching every swing.
If Henderson’s midseason surge aligns with DeRosa’s vision, he could find himself side-by-side with MLB royalty by spring. And you know how these stories go—once an underdog locks in, there’s no telling how far they’ll carry the flag. So yeah, that’s the play. Do with it what you will.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and MLB Network interview (May 21, 2025)
USA Baseball press release
ESPN scouting report
People Magazine interview
USA Today analysis
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