Craig Albernaz Reacts to Gunnar Henderson’s Breakout Performance at the 2026 World Baseball Classic

While the Baltimore Orioles continue preparing for the upcoming MLB season, one of their brightest stars is already turning heads on the international stage. Shortstop Gunnar Henderson delivered an outstanding performance for United States national baseball team during the World Baseball Classic, earning praise from fans and his manager back in Baltimore.

Henderson Shines Against Great Britain

Henderson made the most of his opportunity on March 7, starting at shortstop against the Great Britain national baseball team. Despite playing on a roster loaded with elite talent, he stood out as the most productive hitter of the game.

His stat line was impressive:

• 4-for-5 at the plate

• 1 double

• 2 RBIs

The strong performance helped propel Team USA to a 9–1 victory, improving their tournament record to 2–0 heading into a highly anticipated matchup against the Mexico national baseball team.

With so many stars on the roster — including Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals — it was unclear how many chances Henderson would get to start. But when his number was called, he delivered in a big way.

Orioles Manager Craig Albernaz Was Watching

Back in camp, first-year Orioles manager Craig Albernaz was glued to the broadcast.

Speaking to reporters on March 8, Albernaz admitted he was so energized by Henderson’s performance that he had trouble sleeping afterward.

“I’ll tell you one thing: It was a good thing we had a show-and-go planned today, after the split-squad and daylight saving, because I couldn’t sleep. I was fired up watching it. It was so cool.”

Albernaz said seeing Henderson thrive on such a large international stage was exciting not just for the Orioles organization, but also for baseball fans who may not watch him regularly during the MLB season.

“So cool for Gunnar, and also the rest of the fans to kind of see what Gunnar can do on the big stage, and the impact player we all know he is.”

Emotion and Intensity on Display

One moment that stood out to Albernaz was Henderson’s visible emotion and intensity during the game — something rarely seen during exhibition play.

The Orioles skipper highlighted Henderson’s hustle on extra-base hits, noting that the competitive environment of the tournament brings out a different level of energy.

“You don’t get those emotions in spring training… To see those emotions — especially the hustle double like that — I think that just shows how he plays the game.”

According to Albernaz, this kind of stage is exactly why the World Baseball Classic has become such a beloved international event.

“That’s why the WBC is so cool… you get thrust into those competitive environments.”

Orioles Fans Loving the Moment

Fans of both Team USA and the Baltimore Orioles echoed Albernaz’s excitement online, celebrating Henderson’s dominant showing and hoping it’s a preview of what’s to come when the MLB season begins.

For Baltimore, seeing their franchise cornerstone shine against international competition is an encouraging sign as the team aims to build on its recent success.

And if Henderson keeps performing like this, both Team USA and the Orioles could be in for a very exciting year. ⚾🔥