Cubs' Kittredge: The Orioles Player He Most Wants To Strike Out

James

3 min read

Post on Aug 06, 2025

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Cubs' Kittredge Eyes Orioles' Gunnar Henderson as Dream Strikeout

Chicago Cubs reliever Mark Leiter Jr. recently revealed his top target for a strikeout: Orioles' star Gunnar Henderson. The young Cubs pitcher, known for his pinpoint control and deceptive arsenal, isn't shying away from naming names when discussing his aspirations on the mound. While facing any Major League batter presents a challenge, Leiter Jr. has his sights set on one specific player in particular: Baltimore's rising star, Gunnar Henderson.

This isn't just idle chatter; it reveals a fascinating insight into the competitive mindset of a young pitcher aiming to make his mark in the MLB. Leiter Jr.'s focus on Henderson highlights the Orioles' young slugger's burgeoning reputation as one of baseball's most feared hitters.

<h3>Why Gunnar Henderson? A Look at the Orioles' Rising Star</h3>

Gunnar Henderson's meteoric rise through the Orioles' system is well-documented. His impressive power, combined with exceptional plate discipline, makes him a nightmare matchup for many pitchers. In 2023, Henderson showcased his potential, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of the Orioles' future. His combination of raw power and on-base skills makes him a truly formidable opponent. This year alone, his performance has earned him significant attention, placing him firmly on the radar of opposing pitchers like Leiter Jr.

• Exceptional Power: Henderson consistently displays impressive power, capable of hitting home runs to all fields.
• Strong On-Base Percentage: His discipline at the plate leads to consistent on-base opportunities, making him a threat even when he doesn't hit for power.
• All-Around Athleticism: Henderson's skills extend beyond hitting, making him a valuable asset on the field.

The challenge Henderson presents is exactly what attracts pitchers like Leiter Jr. The thrill of the competition, the test of skill, and the bragging rights that come with striking out a player of Henderson's caliber make it a highly sought-after achievement.

<h3>Leiter Jr.'s Approach: Precision and Deception</h3>

Leiter Jr. isn't relying solely on overpowering stuff. His success is built on precision and deception, making him a tough opponent for even the most seasoned hitters. His ability to locate his pitches and change speeds keeps batters off balance, a strategy particularly effective against power hitters like Henderson.

<h3>The Matchup: A Potential Showdown</h3>

While there's no guarantee of a direct matchup in every game, the possibility of Leiter Jr. facing Henderson is undoubtedly exciting for baseball fans. It's a clash of styles: the young, powerful hitter against the precise, deceptive pitcher. The result promises to be a highlight-reel moment waiting to happen. The Cubs and Orioles will face off several times throughout the remainder of the season, increasing the chances of this coveted pitching-hitting duel taking place. Stay tuned!

<h3>Looking Ahead: The Future of the Cubs and Orioles Rivalry</h3>

This specific rivalry between Leiter Jr. and Henderson adds another layer of intrigue to the growing competition between the Chicago Cubs and the Baltimore Orioles. Both teams boast young, exciting talent, making their future matchups must-watch events. The desire to strike out a star player like Henderson underscores the competitiveness within the league and the individual battles that drive success at the highest level. Keep an eye on these two teams – the future of baseball might just be unfolding right before our eyes.

What are your predictions for a Leiter Jr. vs. Henderson matchup? Let us know in the comments below!