The MLB season is almost officially halfway to the World Series. In one week, the American and National Leagues will square off for the All-Star Game, marking the midpoint of the season. The two sides are now in place, and baseball fans have a lot to look forward to.
American League Lineup
All-Star accolades awarded to 26 players on the American League and National League rosters produced a new wave of glory. On Thursday, MLB unveiled the prestigious All-Star openers, among whom Los Angeles Angels sensation Shohei Ohtani shone brightly, not only winning the distinguished title of designated starter but also representing the American League as its pitcher.
The 2023 MLB All-Star Game will feature notable players such as Adley Rutschman, Clayton Kershaw and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. as announced by the league. On Sunday night, MLB revealed the full list of 46 pitchers and reserves chosen by fan votes or commissions. Interestingly, the Atlanta Braves accumulated eight selections, the most selections for a team since 2012.
The American League boasts a star-studded lineup of starting pitchers, including Gerrit Cole of the New York Yankees, Luis Castillo representing the Seattle Mariners, Nathan Eovaldi coming over from the Texas Rangers, Kevin Gausman showing his talent for the Toronto Blue Jays, Sonny Gray representing the Minnesota Twins, Michael Lorenzen representing the Detroit Tigers, Shane McClanahan showing his skills for the Tampa Bay Rays and Framber Valdez leading the charge for the Houston Astros.
The American League relief pitching staff includes Felix Bautista and Yennier Cano of the Baltimore Orioles, Emmanuel Clase representing the Cleveland Cavaliers and Kenley Jansen from the Boston Red Sox. In addition, Rutschman and catcher Salvador Perez, both players of the Kansas City Royals, have been selected as bench players.
Guerrero, along with Bo Bichette and Whit Merrifield of the Cleveland Guardians, proved their worth on the field and secured their spots in the playoffs as reserve roster players. Teammate Jose Ramirez showed his skills and also made the team.
On the other hand, Alvarez of the Astros, Garcia of the Rangers, Hays of the Orioles and Robert Jr. of the White Sox excelled in their roles as reserve outfielders.
Brent Rooker of the Oakland Athletics will be the designated hitter.
MEXICAN RANDY AROZARENA STARTS MLB ALL STAR !!!!
SUPER RANDY IS NOW ALL STAR RANDY!!!!!
RANDY AROZARENA TO THE MAJOR STARS GAME! pic.twitter.com/l8fTZscqvu
- Eitan Benezra (@EitanBenezra) June 29, 2023
National League Lineup
Miami Marlins outfielder Jorge Soler will be a designated hitter for the National League. As for the reserve outfielders, Nick Castellanos, Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Juan Soto made the team.
The National League bench has also welcomed Pete Alonso of the New York Mets, Dansby Swanson, Ozzie Albies, Matt Olson and Austin Riley to take the infield. The backup catcher position for the National League belongs to Elias Diaz of the Colorado Rockies and Will Smith of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Meanwhile, the National League bullpen will be completed by Alexis Diaz of the Cincinnati Reds, Camilo Doval of the San Francisco Giants, Josh Hader of the San Diego Padres and Devin Williams also of the San Diego Padres.
Kershaw is joined by Josiah Gray, Mitch Keller, Justin Steele, Marcus Stroman, Bryce Elder and Spencer Strider. They were chosen to represent their respective teams in the National League All-Star lineup as pitchers.
The All-Star Game will take place on Tuesday, July 11.
