An open letter from Gunnar Henderson to the Baltimore Orioles, fans, and the entire Orioles community.
Dear Orioles family,
As I sit down to write this, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, pride, and deep appreciation for each and every one of you who has supported me on this incredible journey. From the moment I was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles, I knew I had joined something special. What I didn’t know then was just how much this city, this organization, and this fans would change not only my career—but my life.
As a teenager, I came to Baltimore full of ambitions and determination, unsure where my future would take me. What I discovered was an environment full of faith, patience, and unshakable support. You offered me the opportunity to grow, the freedom to fail, and the drive to succeed. Every cheer from Camden Yards, every standing ovation, every word of support—I’ve felt it all. And I carried it with me whenever I stepped onto that field.
Thank you to the coaching staff, player development team, and front office for believing in me before I played a single big league game. Your advice, faith, and unwavering commitment to excellence have served as the cornerstone for my development. You noticed something in me and helped bring it to life.
To my teammates: thank you for being my brothers. We’ve shared locker rooms, dugouts, road trips, and memorable experiences. You’ve challenged me, inspired me, and helped me become not only a better golfer, but also a better person. I’ll always value the ties we’ve formed. Thank you to the coaching staff, player development team, and front office for believing in me before I played a single big league game. Your advice, faith, and unwavering commitment to excellence have served as the cornerstone for my development. You saw something in me and helped bring it to life.
And the fans, Orioles Nation, have no idea how much you mean to me. You are our team’s heartbeat. Your dedication, enthusiasm, and presence are unrivaled. Whether we were rebuilding or attempting a playoff run, you stood tall. You remained loud. You reminded us what we were playing for. I’ll never forget the electrifying excitement of a packed Camden Yards, the sea of orange, and the mutual certainty that we will fly together no matter what.
This city, this team—it’s in my blood. Baltimore helped shape who I am now. And, while there is still much more I want to accomplish, I will always remember this chapter of my life with pride and humility. Thank you for helping me become the player and man I aspire to be. This trip is far from over, but I simply wanted to thank you.
With my whole heart,
Gunnar Henderson
shortstop/third base
Baltimore Orioles.
