Gunnar Henderson is set to participate in the Home Run Derby.
Major League Baseball announced on social media Sunday night that the Baltimore shortstop would be the first player to confirm his entry into the competition. At the same time, the announcement appeared on the scoreboard at Camden Yards when Henderson stepped up to bat in the third inning against Texas.
“Watching the Home Run Derby as a kid was something that seemed really cool, so having this opportunity is special,” Henderson said. “I’m excited for it.”
After earning AL Rookie of the Year honors last season, Henderson is now considered a candidate for AL MVP with the Orioles leading the AL East. He currently has 26 home runs, tied for second-most in the majors behind Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees.
Henderson also leads all players with eight leadoff home runs this season, which is five shy of Alfonso Soriano’s MLB record.
The Home Run Derby will take place on July 15 as part of the All-Star festivities at Globe Life Field in Texas.
