Shohei Ohtani has made history by being the first player to start as the designated hitter in four consecutive All-Star Games. The lineups for the upcoming game on July 16 in Arlington, Texas were announced, and Ohtani will be joined by Aaron Judge from the New York Yankees as the only players returning from last year.
In the National League, Philadelphia could potentially have three of the four starting infielders with Trea Turner and Alec Bohm joining Bryce Harper, who may miss the game due to a leg injury. This year marks the first time since 1970 that each league has had no more than one player repeat as an elected starter.
Several teams have two starters each, including the Yankees with Juan Soto and Aaron Judge, as well as other players like Adley Rutschman, Jose Altuve, and Yordan Alvarez. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Ketel Marte were also voted in as starters.
Shohei Ohtani, who recently signed a record-breaking contract with the Dodgers, will be playing in his fourth All-Star Game. However, he will not be pitching this season as he is recovering from elbow surgery. Other players like Altuve, RamÃrez, and Guerrero have also been selected as starters.
A number of players will be making their first All-Star Game starts, including William Contreras, Gunnar Henderson, and Steven Kwan. Fernando Tatis Jr. and Bryce Harper, both dealing with injuries, may miss the game.
Pitchers and reserves will be announced later, while the host team, the Rangers, did not have any players elected as starters. Jurickson Profar, in his 11th season, was selected as an All-Star for the first time this year.
In a close vote, Tatis narrowly beat out Teoscar Hernández and Brandon Marsh for a spot in the outfield. Turner also won over Mookie Betts for the shortstop position. In the American League, Alvarez and Kwan secured their spots in the starting lineup after close votes.
Overall, the All-Star Game promises to be an exciting event with a mix of veteran players and newcomers taking the field. Fans can look forward to seeing some of the best talents in baseball showcase their skills on July 16 in Texas.