Orioles' Heston Kjerstad Declares Himself 'Back to Full Health'

Outfielder ready to move past injury-plagued 2025 season

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Orioles outfielder Heston Kjerstad has reported to spring training feeling fully recovered from the unspecified injury or condition that sidelined him for the majority of the 2025 season. After going on the minor league injured list with 'fatigue' in July, Kjerstad missed the rest of the year but is now declaring himself 'back to full health' and 'excited to be here' as he looks to put the previous season behind him.

Why it matters

Kjerstad was the Orioles' first-round draft pick in 2020 and was expected to be a key part of the team's future, so his health and return to the lineup is an important development for the franchise as they look to build on their recent success.

The details

Kjerstad was sidelined for the majority of the 2025 season due to an unspecified injury or condition, after initially going on the minor league injured list in July with 'fatigue'. He missed the rest of the year but has now reported to spring training feeling fully recovered and ready to contribute to the Orioles' lineup.

  • Kjerstad went on the minor league injured list with 'fatigue' in July 2025.
  • Kjerstad missed the remainder of the 2025 season after the July injury.
  • Kjerstad has reported to 2026 spring training feeling 'back to full health'.

The players

Heston Kjerstad

An outfielder for the Baltimore Orioles who was the team's first-round draft pick in 2020.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Back to full health, feeling great, excited to be here”

— Heston Kjerstad (Baltimore Sun)

What’s next

Kjerstad will look to have a strong spring training and earn a spot on the Orioles' Opening Day roster as they aim to build on their recent success.

The takeaway

Kjerstad's return to full health is an important development for the Orioles as they look to continue their upward trajectory, with the talented young outfielder poised to play a key role if he can stay healthy and productive.