Which Players Should Start for the American League in the MLB All-Star Game?

DH: Yordan Alvarez (HOU)

Two-time All-Star Yordan Alvarez narrowly surpassed the unexpected breakout star David Fry. Although Fry leads in the triple slash categories, Alvarez has participated in 20 more games and comfortably surpasses him in home runs, runs, and RBIs. Additionally, Fry has only served as the designated hitter in 12 of his 55 games this season.

Taking everything into account, Fry presents as the more intriguing candidate; however, Alvarez’s overwhelming performance makes a compelling case. Even in what could be considered a "down year" for him, Alvarez boasts a 145 wRC+ and is on track to set personal bests in plate appearances and games played.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

First Base: Josh Naylor (CLE)

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Ryan Mountcastle received significant attention in the initial MLB All-Star voting update, but our team believes Josh Naylor should be the one to get the All-Star nod.

Naylor is ahead of all AL first basemen with 20 home runs, equaling the combined total of Guerrero and Mountcastle. He also tops the charts in runs (43), RBIs (58), and slugging percentage (.511), as well as wOBA (.352), wRC+ (132), and FanGraphs WAR (1.5).

While the AL may not have a standout superstar at first base this year, Naylor has clearly distinguished himself as the leading player in this position.

Second Base: Jose Altuve (HOU)

Jose Altuve edged out Marcus Semien here. While neither is matching their batting prowess from last season, Altuve still leads primary AL second basemen with a 131 wRC+. Semien compensates for his average offensive numbers with outstanding defense, boasting 11 outs above average and 10 defensive runs saved.

In the end, a slight majority of our staff favored Altuve, though both players are top choices at second base. The fans' voting reflects this sentiment, as their matchup is among the tightest in both leagues according to the first voting update. The final decision may hinge on their performances in the upcoming games.

Third Base: José Ramírez (CLE)

Five-time All-Star José Ramírez decisively leads the way, mirroring his status as the clear frontrunner in the first MLB voting update. He dominates among primary AL third basemen with 19 home runs, 58 runs scored, 67 RBIs, and a 2.7 fWAR.

Despite Ramírez's exceptional performance, it's somewhat unexpected that the competition isn't tighter. Third base is currently one of the most talent-rich positions in the AL, but Ramírez stands out not only as the top all-around player but also as the most recognizable name.

For all your MLB deep dives, check out our friends at Just Baseball.

Download the SportsGrid App

Stay Ahead of the Game and Elevate Your Sports Betting Experience with SportsGrid. Download the SportsGrid App from the Apple Store and Google Play Store.

Shortstop: Gunnar Henderson (BAL)

It's unfortunate that only one player can start at shortstop, given that Gunnar Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr. have been among the league's standout performers in the first three months of the season.

However, Henderson has surged ahead in June, showcasing impressive offensive stats that could potentially secure him the AL MVP. The 22-year-old leads all of MLB with a 5.4 fWAR, attributed to his 24 home runs, 174 wRC+, 13 steals, and exceptional defense at shortstop. He has arguably been the best all-around player in baseball this year.

Outfield: Aaron Judge (NYY), Juan Soto (NYY), Kyle Tucker (HOU)

It appears almost certain that either Aaron Judge or Juan Soto will finish phase one of All-Star voting as the AL’s top vote-getter, securing a spot in the All-Star starting lineup. The consensus among staff is that both players merit this honor, as evidenced by their inclusion on every ballot. The Yankees’ sluggers currently lead the American League in key metrics such as OPS, wOBA, xwOBA, and wRC+.

Kyle Tucker, who hasn’t played in three weeks, still holds the third rank among qualified AL outfielders in OPS (.979) and wRC+ (175). It wouldn’t be surprising if a surging Steven Kwan overtakes Tucker in the next round of voting; however, Tucker remains a worthy selection at the moment.

While Jarren Duran may lack the widespread recognition to secure a starting position, he has also been a deserving contender. He is currently fourth among AL outfielders in fWAR, bolstered by impressive statistics including a 120 wRC+, 20 stolen bases, and 6 OAA.

DH: Yordan Alvarez (HOU)

Two-time All-Star Yordan Alvarez narrowly surpassed the unexpected breakout star David Fry. Although Fry leads in the triple slash categories, Alvarez has participated in 20 more games and comfortably surpasses him in home runs, runs, and RBIs. Additionally, Fry has only served as the designated hitter in 12 of his 55 games this season.

Taking everything into account, Fry presents as the more intriguing candidate; however, Alvarez’s overwhelming performance makes a compelling case. Even in what could be considered a "down year" for him, Alvarez boasts a 145 wRC+ and is on track to set personal bests in plate appearances and games played.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.