Being chosen as the starting pitcher for the MLB All-Star Game isn't just an honor; it's a testament to a player's dominance and skill on the mound. Icons like Don Drysdale, Lefty Gomez, and Robin Roberts each started five All-Star Games, while Jim Palmer, Max Scherzer, and Randy Johnson started four apiece. Come 2024, this prestigious event will be hosted by the defending champions, the Texas Rangers, at Globe Life Field, setting the stage for another historic matchup.
On the American League side, the roster of starting pitchers boasts names like Tyler Anderson, Corbin Burnes, Garrett Crochet, Logan Gilbert, Tanner Houck, Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Tarik Skubal. Notably, Logan Gilbert is slated to start next Sunday, giving fans much to anticipate. Seth Lugo is having a standout season, leading the league in wins, ERA, and WAR, while also pitching the most innings this season.
Lugo's transition from a reliever with the Mets to a full-time starter with the Padres last season has been remarkable. His subsequent move to the Royals via a two-year deal last offseason has proven fruitful. "He’s pitched like an ace all year, posting a career year at age 34. That's all kinds of fun," reflects on his incredible journey to becoming a dominant pitcher.
Strikeout aficionados will also be looking at the performances of Crochet, Ragans, and Skubal. Meanwhile, Corbin Burnes, a former Cy Young winner, continues to impress with his consistency and skill.
The National League isn't short of talent either. Its roster includes Tyler Glasnow, Shota Imanaga, Reynaldo López, Chris Sale, Paul Skenes, Ranger Suárez, Logan Webb, and Zack Wheeler. Logan Webb stands out, leading in innings pitched and ranking seventh in ERA, while Sánchez holds the title of ERA leader in the National League.
Sale is having a phenomenal season, sitting second in ERA, leading in wins and WHIP, and ranking third in strikeouts. Tyler Glasnow is making waves atop the strikeout charts, demonstrating his prowess on the mound.
One of the most compelling stories this season is Paul Skenes, the first pitcher ever taken No. 1 overall to make the All-Star team the following season. After starting the season in Triple-A under cautious management from the Pirates, Skenes has made a significant impact. In his 10 starts, he boasts a 5-0 record with a 2.12 ERA, a 1.01 WHIP, and 78 strikeouts against 12 walks over 59 1/3 innings. However, his workload has kept him from qualifying for the ERA title.
The anticipation surrounding Skenes' All-Star appearance is palpable. As one analyst puts it, "Think about Skenes facing Altuve, Soto, and Judge and tell me you'd rather someone else start. C'mon. This is dream-type stuff." Skenes' potential matchups include some of the best hitters in the game, and even a single inning of his pitching could spell electrifying action, with opponents like José Altuve, Juan Soto, and Aaron Judge standing in line, and Yordan Alvarez waiting if any man reaches base.
As the All-Star Game approaches, the focus naturally shifts to Globe Life Field and the showcased talent. Both leagues boast a remarkable lineup of starters, blending seasoned veterans with emergent stars. The pitchers are expected to deliver thrilling performances, making the 2024 All-Star Game an event not to be missed, filled with narratives that will echo in the annals of baseball history.