‘DEAL ACCEPTED: Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson sign a 4-years contract with Baltimore Orioles worth $88.5 million as their new….see more

Baltimore, MD — In a landmark move that solidifies the Baltimore Orioles’ commitment to building around young talent, the team has officially signed star shortstop Gunnar Henderson to a four-year contract extension worth $88.5 million. The deal was confirmed by team sources and marks a pivotal moment in the Orioles’ continued rise as one of Major League Baseball’s most promising franchises.

The 23-year-old Henderson, who burst onto the scene in 2022, has quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic and valuable players in the league. Known for his powerful bat, elite fielding, and high baseball IQ, Henderson’s new deal not only rewards his on-field production but also signals the Orioles’ intent to compete at the highest level for years to come.

A Franchise Cornerstone

Gunnar Henderson’s journey from second-round draft pick in 2019 to becoming the face of the franchise has been nothing short of remarkable. After an impressive minor league ascent, he made his MLB debut in late 2022 and instantly became a fan favorite in Baltimore. His breakout 2023 season saw him hit .275 with 28 home runs, 85 RBIs, and an OPS over .850, earning him American League Rookie of the Year honors and helping the Orioles secure a postseason berth.

Henderson’s ability to play both shortstop and third base at an elite level, combined with his offensive prowess, made him an ideal candidate for a long-term deal. The Orioles had previously been cautious about handing out major contracts, but with Henderson, they made an exception — and rightly so.

The Structure of the Deal

The $88.5 million contract covers the next four seasons and includes performance incentives, a signing bonus, and potential opt-out or extension clauses that have yet to be fully disclosed. While shorter than many mega-deals handed to young stars in recent years, the agreement gives Henderson both financial security and future flexibility — he will still be just 27 years old when the deal expires, likely setting him up for another major payday.

For the Orioles, the contract is a calculated investment. Instead of waiting for arbitration years to increase Henderson’s cost, they’ve locked in his services at a fair market rate for a player of his caliber. It also sends a strong message to the rest of the clubhouse and the fanbase: Baltimore is ready to win — and keep its stars.

Orioles on the Rise

The timing of the extension couldn’t be more perfect. Baltimore’s farm system remains one of the deepest in the league, and with young stars like Adley Rutschman, Jackson Holliday, and Grayson Rodriguez also making their mark, the Orioles are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the American League East.

Executive Vice President and General Manager Mike Elias praised Henderson during a press conference: “Gunnar is the kind of player every team dreams of building around. He’s got the talent, the work ethic, and the leadership. He represents everything we want the Orioles to be.”

Fans, too, have plenty to celebrate. Camden Yards has been buzzing with excitement as the Orioles continue their turnaround from years of rebuilding. With Henderson locked in, the team has taken a major step toward ensuring sustained success and a potential return to the World Series in the near future.

Looking Ahead

As the Orioles look toward the second half of the 2025 season, Henderson’s presence will be critical. His consistency at the plate and in the field gives the team a dependable core around which to build. Moreover, this extension could be just the beginning — there is speculation that the team may pursue long-term deals with other young stars as part of their larger strategy.

In a league where stars are often lured away by bigger markets and deeper pockets, the Orioles’ decision to secure Gunnar Henderson now is a bold and decisive move. For Baltimore, it’s not just a contract — it’s a commitment to winning.