The Orioles versatile top-notch fans favorite is back with Triple-A Norfolk for a game against Charlotte tonight, and it might be the final game of his rehab assignment. The Orioles still need some time to decide whether to call him up. Henderson is 5-for-16 with two home runs in four games with the Tides, and he will be playing 7-9 innings tonight.
However, there’s a potential complication in reinstating him: the Orioles’ 1:05 p.m. game tomorrow against the Red Sox, which presents a travel challenge. If everything goes well tonight, Henderson could make the trip to Kansas City for the weekend series against the Royals.
Manager Brandon Hyde spoke to Henderson yesterday, and the shortstop said he’s feeling good. Hyde expressed hope that the game tonight would provide the clarity needed to make a decision, noting the unfortunate timing of the day game tomorrow.
Henderson, who strained his right intercostal during a spring training play on February 27, was unable to return in time for Opening Day. But he’s seen plenty of action both on the back fields and during his rehab assignment. The Orioles, already without outfielder Colton Cowser due to a fractured thumb, could greatly benefit from having a healthy Henderson in the lineup. Hyde noted the strain happened on an awkward play but was optimistic Henderson is now fully healed.
Once he rejoins the team, Henderson will return to his regular role as the everyday shortstop and leadoff hitter. Hyde wasn’t sure if that would happen tomorrow or in Kansas City, but he confirmed Henderson’s return is imminent.
In other updates, Grayson Rodriguez threw his second light bullpen session earlier today, following up from Toronto, and has also completed two “short box” sessions. Jordan Westburg, leading off tonight, is feeling much better, and Trevor Rogers and Chayce McDermott are throwing side sessions.
Tomoyuki Sugano, who left his debut due to hand cramping, is expected to make his next start this weekend. Hyde said it was likely a hydration issue and stressed the importance of keeping Sugano hydrated, even offering a lighthearted tip about bananas.
As for Jackson Holliday, he’s sitting out tonight against left-hander Garrett Crochet, one of the best pitchers in baseball. Hyde chose to go with Jorge Mateo at shortstop and Westburg at second base, though he noted this won’t be a consistent pattern for Holliday, as the matchup with Crochet is particularly challenging for left-handed hitters.
For the Red Sox lineup tonight:
- Jarren Duran, LF
- Rafael Devers, DH
- Alex Bregman, 3B
- Triston Casas, 1B
- Trevor Story, SS
- Wilyer Abreu, RF
- Kristian Campbell, 2B
- Connor Wong, C
- Ceddanne Rafaela, CF
Starting for the Red Sox is Garrett Crochet, LHP.
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