The rosters will follow the All-Star roster rules, including 32 players with 20 position players (at least two at each position, including designated hitter) and 12 pitchers (four relievers). Each player will be considered only at the positions they are listed on the official All-Star ballot, and every team must have a representative. Now, let’s dive into the breakdown of the potential American League starters for the game on July 11 in Seattle.
C: Adley Rutschman of the Baltimore Orioles is expected to make the first of many All-Star appearances. While he may not possess elite power, he consistently produces high on-base percentages.
1B: Yandy Diaz from the Tampa Bay Rays and Anthony Rizzo are the top contenders for this position, with Diaz resembling Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s impressive numbers from 2021.
2B: Marcus Semien of the Texas Rangers is likely to secure his second All-Star start, given the limited competition in the position.
3B: Matt Chapman of the Toronto Blue Jays has been the standout player at his position, despite experiencing some inconsistency in his performance.
SS: Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays leads the AL in Baseball-Reference WAR and has displayed an impressive combination of hitting and defense at a young age.
OF: Aaron Judge from the New York Yankees has been hitting home runs at an impressive pace and is in contention for the MVP title. Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels, although experiencing a decline in his stats, remains a significant presence in the game. Yordan Alvarez of the Houston Astros is a no-brainer selection, and his performance ranks him second only to Judge as a hitter.
DH: Shohei Ohtani, also from the Los Angeles Angels, is an exceptional player known for his remarkable home runs and contributions both as a pitcher and hitter.
Pitchers:
Framber Valdez of the Houston Astros is considered the best pitcher in the AL, with his dominant performance in the previous season and postseason contributing to his selection.
The American League reserves include Salvador Perez (C) of the Kansas City Royals, Anthony Rizzo (1B) of the New York Yankees, Jose Altuve (2B) of the Houston Astros, Jose Ramirez (3B) of the Cleveland Guardians, Rafael Devers (3B) of the Boston Red Sox, Bo Bichette (SS) of the Toronto Blue Jays, Randy Arozarena (OF) of the Tampa Bay Rays, Luis Robert (OF) of the Chicago White Sox, Julio Rodriguez (OF) of the Seattle Mariners, Adolis Garcia (OF) of the Texas Rangers, and Brent Rooker (DH) of the Oakland Athletics.
The American League pitchers include Luis Castillo (P) of the Seattle Mariners, Nathan Eovaldi (P) of the Texas Rangers, Sonny Gray (P) of the Minnesota Twins, Shane McClanahan (P) of the Tampa Bay Rays, Kevin Gausman (P) of the Toronto Blue Jays, Joe Ryan (P) of the Minnesota Twins, Gerrit Cole (P) of the New York Yankees, Shohei Ohtani (P) of the Los Angeles Angels, Cristian Javier (RP) of the Baltimore Orioles, Yennier Cano (RP) of the Baltimore Orioles, Alex Lange (RP) of the Detroit Tigers, and Paul Sewald (RP) of the Seattle Mariners.
These selections represent the potential All-Star players from the American League for the 2023 MLB All-Star Game.
2B: Luis Arraez, Miami Marlins
A 5-for-5 game on Saturday raised his average 16 points to .390; then he had two more hits on Sunday and three on Monday. He’s now at an incredible .399, which means … don’t say it … OK, say it… hitting .400 is within reach! Arraez has been an offensive force for the Marlins, consistently getting on base and providing a spark at the top of their lineup.
3B: Nolan Arenado, St. Louis Cardinals
Arenado continues to show why he is regarded as one of the best third basemen in the game. He provides Gold Glove defense and a potent bat in the Cardinals’ lineup. While his power numbers may not be as high as in previous seasons, his ability to drive in runs and come up with clutch hits makes him a valuable asset for the Cardinals.
SS: Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego Padres
Tatis Jr. is a generational talent who continues to amaze with his skills and athleticism. Despite missing some time due to injury, he has put up impressive numbers and is a key contributor for the Padres. Tatis Jr. brings excitement to the game with his incredible plays in the field and his ability to hit for both power and average.
OF: Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
Acuña Jr. has emerged as one of the game’s brightest stars and is having an outstanding season for the Braves. He possesses a rare combination of speed, power, and defensive skills that make him a threat every time he steps on the field. Acuña Jr. leads the National League in home runs and stolen bases, showcasing his versatility and impact on the game.
OF: Juan Soto, Washington Nationals
Soto is a hitting machine and continues to impress with his ability to get on base and drive in runs. Despite playing for a struggling Nationals team, Soto remains a standout player and a consistent offensive threat. His plate discipline and keen eye make him one of the toughest outs in the league.
OF: Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers
Betts is a perennial All-Star and one of the most complete players in the game. He excels both offensively and defensively, making game-changing plays with his glove and contributing with his bat. Betts brings a winning mentality to the Dodgers and is a key contributor to their success.
DH: Bryce Harper, Philadelphia Phillies
Harper has found his stride with the Phillies and is having an impressive season at the plate. His power and ability to drive in runs make him a valuable asset in the designated hitter role. Harper’s presence in the Phillies’ lineup adds a significant threat and helps anchor their offense.
National League reserves
C: J.T. Realmuto, Philadelphia Phillies
Realmuto continues to be one of the top catchers in the league, providing solid defense behind the plate and contributing offensively. His ability to handle pitchers and provide timely hits makes him a valuable asset for the Phillies.
1B: Max Muncy, Los Angeles Dodgers
Muncy has been a consistent force in the Dodgers’ lineup, showcasing his power and plate discipline. His ability to draw walks and hit for both power and average makes him a dangerous hitter for opposing pitchers.
2B: Ozzie Albies, Atlanta Braves
Albies is having a breakout season and has been a catalyst for the Braves’ offense. He provides a combination of power, speed, and solid defense at second base, making him an integral part of the team’s success.
3B: Kris Bryant, Chicago Cubs
Bryant has rejuvenated his career with a strong start to the season, showcasing his versatility by playing multiple positions. His power and ability to get on base have been key for the Cubs’ offense.
SS: Trea Turner, Los Angeles Dodgers
Turner brings a combination of speed and offensive production to the Dodgers’ lineup. His ability to steal bases and create scoring opportunities makes him a dynamic player.
OF: Nick Castellanos, Cincinnati Reds
Castellanos has been one of the top hitters in the National League, consistently providing power and driving in runs for the Reds. His offensive contributions have been instrumental in the team’s success.
OF: Jesse Winker, Cincinnati Reds
Winker has been a pleasant surprise for the Reds this season, displaying impressive power and hitting for a high average. His consistent offensive production has helped fuel the team’s offense.
OF: Tyler O’Neill, St. Louis Cardinals
O’Neill has emerged as a breakout star for the Cardinals, showcasing his power and defensive skills in the outfield. His ability to drive in runs and make impact plays in the field has been crucial for the Cardinals’ success.
DH: Kyle Schwarber, Washington Nationals
Schwarber has been a force at the plate since joining the Nationals, displaying his power-hitting ability. Despite missing some time due to injury, he has made a significant impact in the designated hitter role.
National League pitchers
The National League pitching staff is stacked with talented arms, including Jacob deGrom (New York Mets), Walker Buehler (Los Angeles Dodgers), Max Scherzer (San Diego Padres), Brandon Woodruff (Milwaukee Brewers), Corbin Burnes (Milwaukee Brewers), Julio Urias (Los Angeles Dodgers), Zack Wheeler (Philadelphia Phillies), Trevor Rogers (Miami Marlins), Josh Hader (Milwaukee Brewers), Craig Kimbrel (Chicago Cubs), Mark Melancon (San Diego Padres), and Alex Reyes (St. Louis Cardinals).
These selections represent the potential National League All-Star starters, reserves, and pitchers for the 2023 MLB All-Star Game.