The Annual Awards Week of the MLB is currently underway, and it already created a buzz among its spectators. With MVP (Most Valuable Player) Awards and Cy Young Awards taking place, the week already garnered the spotlight from various facets of the sporting realm. Interestingly, it also caught the attention of the Baltimore Bullet, Michael Phelps, and he took a moment to congratulate one of his favorite baseball players.

As Baltimore Orioles’ shortstop Gunnar Henderson took home American league Rookie of the Year award, Phelps expressed his elation and celebrated Henderson’s big achievement on his social media handle.

Michael Phelps cheers hard as Orioles’ star makes history

Michael Phelps recently posted a new story on his Instagram and shared a post made by the Baltimore Orioles. Apparently, Baltimore’s rookie Gunnar Henderson bagged the Rookie of the Year Award. Sharing the player’s grand win, Phelps wrote in his story, “Let’s go @orioles. Congrats @g_henderson002.”

Gunnar Henderson made history by becoming the first baseball star from the Orioles to win the award since 1989. Adding more force to his achievement, Henderson claimed the award by a unanimous decision. Henderson plays the role of an infielder, third baseman, and shortstop.

The 22-year-old displayed fabulous skill in his first season and wowed several Baltimore Orioles fans along with Phelps. This is Henderson’s second major award in 2023 after the Silver Slug Award.

Henderson made his debut in September 2022 just two months after he turned 21. Now, he earned himself a gift for his 22nd birthday. Interestingly, Gunnar Henderson claimed the Rookie of the Year Award with someone special. In fact, the baseball star who also won the award made history for his own MLB club as well.

High school buddies take the top spot in debut MLB year

Arizona Diamondbacks rookie baseball star Corbin Carroll was named the Rookie of the Year along with Orioles’ Gunnar Henderson. The 23-year-old was also chosen for the honor unanimously. This marks the fifth time in MLB history when both the award-winning rookies won by a unanimous decision. 

ALSO READ – Michigan Wolverines Receive Special Message From Alumni Michael Phelps After Historic Win Against Penn State

While Henderson made history by becoming the first Oriole to claim the honor in 34 years, Carroll became the first Diamondback to ever claim the award. Just five years ago, both players played together in high school and also made top baseball prospects for MLB. As they both advance further in their careers, they’ll look forward to winning more awards as well as championships. 

WATCH STORY – Did Michael Phelps Swap Loyalties From Baltimore Orioles to Arizona Teams Over Friendship With John Rahm?