Gunnar Henderson confirmed as first participant in MLB Home Run Derby

In Baltimore, the Orioles suffered an 11-2 loss against the Texas Rangers, with Gunnar Henderson striking out four times and ending his 36-game on-base streak. Rangers' rookie Wyatt Langford made history by hitting for the cycle, becoming the first major leaguer to do so this season. The defending World Series champions dominated the game, never trailing and scoring multiple runs in various innings. Langford's three-run homer in the eighth sealed the victory for Texas. Cole Irvin struggled on the mound for the Orioles, allowing five runs in 3 2/3 innings. The Baltimore pitching staff has faced challenges with injuries to key players like Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells. Despite a strong start to the season, Irvin has struggled to pitch deep into games recently. The Rangers were without star shortstop Corey Seager, who was sidelined after being hit on the wrist by a pitch. In other news, Baltimore's Gunnar Henderson has been selected to participate in the Major League Baseball All-Star Home Run Derby. The young slugger has been impressive this season, batting .292 with 26 home runs and 58 RBIs. Henderson, who was the AL Rookie of the Year in 2023, is on track to make his first All-Star Game appearance. The MLB All-Star Game is scheduled for July 15 in Arlington, Texas. Henderson expressed his excitement about participating in the Home Run Derby, a childhood dream come true for him. After a successful rookie season, he is now considered an MVP candidate for the Orioles, ranking second in the majors for home runs. The derby, set for July 15 at Globe Life Field, will be part of the All-Star festivities in Texas.