The MLB All-Star Game is fast approaching, and while some deserving players have made the roster, there are always a few who get snubbed. One such player is Josh Smith, a versatile infielder for the Texas Rangers who has been hitting over .300 for the past two months. Despite his impressive stats, Smith finds himself on the outside looking in as the third base position in the American League is well-stocked with talent.
Another player who deserves consideration is Ronel Blanco, a pitcher for the Houston Astros who has been lights out in the first half of the season. Blanco has a no-hitter under his belt and an impressive 8-3 record to go along with a 2.53 ERA and a 1.01 WHIP. His contributions have been instrumental in the Astros’ success this season.
Willi Castro of the Minnesota Twins is another player who has been overlooked. Castro has put up solid numbers with 22 doubles, seven home runs, and 54 runs scored. His speed on the basepaths, with five triples and 10 stolen bases, would make him a valuable asset in late-game situations.
Grayson Rodriguez of the Baltimore Orioles is another player who has been left off the All-Star roster. Rodriguez leads the American League with 11 wins and has been a key part of the Orioles’ success this season. His teammates Anthony Santander, Craig Kimbrel, and Jordan Westburg have also been performing at a high level but failed to make the cut.
Brent Rooker of the Oakland Athletics has been swinging a hot bat recently, with 18 home runs and 54 RBIs to his name. His ability to come off the bench and provide a spark could be valuable in the All-Star Game. Christian Walker of the Arizona Diamondbacks is another glaring omission, with 22 home runs and Gold Glove defense to his credit.
Masyn Winn of the St. Louis Cardinals has been a standout performer, batting .387 over a seven-game stretch and playing solid defense at shortstop. While closer Ryan Helsley leads the MLB in saves, Winn’s contributions have been crucial to the Cardinals’ success in the NL Central.
Overall, the All-Star Game is a time to celebrate the best players in the league, but there are always deserving candidates who get left out. Players like Smith, Blanco, Castro, Rodriguez, Rooker, Walker, and Winn have all made strong cases for inclusion and will be looking to prove their worth in the second half of the season.