# Gunnar Henderson's 2027 MVP Return

> Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson aims for MVP return after 2026 slump.
- Title: Gunnar Henderson's 2027 MVP Return · Mlb | Shortify
- Summary: Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson aims for MVP return after 2026 slump. Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson could become 2027 AL MVP after regaining bat…
- Keywords: gunnar henderson, orioles, american league, mvp, bat speed, plate discipline, 2027, 2026, 2025, 2024, Mlb
- Source: Mlb — https://mlb.com/news/gunnar-henderson-outlook-for-orioles-in-2027
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: gunnar henderson, orioles, american league, mvp, bat speed, plate discipline, 2027, 2026, 2025, 2024, sports
## 2024 MVP Ballot
Henderson finished fourth in 2024 AL MVP voting behind Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr. and Juan Soto.
## 2026 MVP Absence
Henderson was not named in 2026 AL MVP winners despite strong 2024 performance.
## 2026 Offensive Drop
Henderson posted a .225/.309/.403 slash line in 2026, 200 OPS points below 2024 career high.
## Bat Speed Decline
Henderson's bat speed dropped from 76.2 mph in 2024 to 74.1 mph in 2026, ranking 55th in MLB.
## Fastball Struggles
Henderson hit .233 against fastballs with .401 SLG in 2026, down from .305 with .444 SLG in 2.2025.
## Plate Discipline Issues
Henderson's chase rate hit 30.4%, a career-worst level, and he expanded the strike zone in 2026.
## 2027 Outlook
Henderson aims for MVP return with 2027 season, supported by Orioles' development plans.

> I fully expect he’s going to have a much better season this year
## Key takeaway

Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson could become 2027 AL MVP after regaining bat speed and plate discipline.