Shorebirds in the Spotlight: 2024 Silver Slugger Finalists Make Their Mark
As the 2024 MLB season has come to a close, the spotlight shines on some of the game's top offensive talents. With the announcement of the Silver Slugger Award finalists, this prestigious honor recognizes the best hitters at each position in both the American and National Leagues, celebrating players who
As the 2024 MLB season has come to a close, the spotlight shines on some of the game's top offensive talents. With the announcement of the Silver Slugger Award finalists, this prestigious honor recognizes the best hitters at each position in both the American and National Leagues, celebrating players who excel in power, consistency, and production at the plate. Among the finalists are several Shorebirds Alums who have quickly become cornerstones for their teams, showcasing impressive bat skills and solidifying their places as some of the most dynamic players in the league.
Gunnar Henderson: Gunnar has quickly become one of the most exciting young stars in baseball, and his 2024 season has earned him a spot as a finalist for the Silver Slugger Award. The 22-year-old Shortstop has been a key player for an Orioles team that is poised for a deep playoff run.
Henderson’s 2024 season has been stellar, with 25+ home runs, 80+ RBIs, and a .270+ batting average. His impressive combination of power, patience, and consistency at the plate has made him one of the top offensive players in the American League. What sets Henderson apart from other Silver Slugger candidates is his all-around game. At just 22, his ability to hit for both power and average, while maintaining strong plate discipline puts him in the company of the game’s elite. His 2024 performance has shown that he’s not just a future star, but a present-day difference-maker for Baltimore.
Jordan Westburg: The versatile infielder for the Baltimore Orioles, has been one of the breakout stars of the 2024 season. His impressive offensive production has earned him a spot as a finalist for the Silver Slugger Award, recognizing him as one of the top hitters in the American League.
In just his second full season in the majors, Westburg posted impressive numbers, including 20+ home runs, 75+ RBIs, and a .270+ batting average. Known for his power, speed, and ability to get on base, Westburg has become a key piece in the Orioles' lineup.
As a Silver Slugger finalist, Jordan Westburg’s recognition is proof of his rapid development and bright future. So whether or not he wins the award, his performance in 2024 has made him one of the new promising young talents in baseball and a cornerstone of the Orioles' future.
Manny Machado: Manny Machado, the star third baseman for the San Diego Padres, has been named a finalist for the 2024 Silver Slugger Award, solidifying his place as one of the best hitters in the National League. Even in his 12th MLB season, Machado continues to demonstrate why he’s considered one of the most consistent and dangerous hitters in the game.
In 2024, Machado has once again delivered standout numbers, including 30+ home runs, 100+ RBIs, and a .290+ batting average. Known for his power, run production, and ability to come through in clutch moments, Machado remains a cornerstone of the Padres' lineup. His offensive consistency and leadership have kept him among the league's elite, even as the Padres faced challenges in a competitive NL West.
As a finalist for the 2024 Silver Slugger, Machado’s continued excellence serves as a reminder of his enduring talent. Whether or not he wins, he remains one of the top all-around players in MLB and a key figure in the Padres' future.
Gunnar Henderson, Jordan Westburg, and Manny Machado all have strong connections to the Delmarva Shorebirds, highlighting the success of the Baltimore Orioles’ player development system. Machado played for Delmarva in 2011, marking the beginning of his journey to stardom, while Henderson and Westburg followed a couple years later, spending time with the Shorebirds as they developed into key players for the Orioles. Their success at the major league level, including their recognition as Silver Slugger finalists, can further prove the impact that the Delmarva Shorebirds and the Orioles' minor league system have had in shaping their careers. As these young stars continue to rise, they represent the bright future of the Orioles, all with roots with the Shorebirds.