LOS ANGELES (SNN-TV) – Some of the stars from Spring Training on the Suncoast have been named as part of the 92nd Midsummer Classic.
The reigning World Series champ, Atlanta Braves, pace the NL with five All-Star selections, their most since 2011. With Bryce Harper sidelined due to a fractured left thumb, William Contreras will start for the NL at DH — while his brother, Cubs star Willson starts at catcher. Ronald Acuña, the leading NL vote-getter in Phase 1, earned an automatic All-Star start, the third of his career.
Travis d’Arnaud, Max Fried and Dansby Swanson were named as reserves as well.
As for the Orioles and Pirates, each team will be represented in L.A. by their closer. Baltimore will be showcased by Jorge Lopez. López has finally found a home in Baltimore. He’s rewarded them with a breakout season with a 1.74 ERA and 16 saves.
In Pittsburgh, in his second full season, Buccos reliever David Bednar has transformed into one of the best closers in MLB, holding a 2.63 ERA and saving 15 games, making his first All-Star Game as well.
The All-Star Game will be held at Dodger Stadium in L.A. on next Tuesday.
