Alright folks, let's talk about the 2023 MLB All-Star Game Starters and Reserves. The lineups are loaded with talent, sure, but there's an elephant in the room. Or should I say, elephants not in the room. Some of the biggest snubs of the year got left out in the cold. Yes, we're talking about Fernando Tatís Jr. from the San Diego Padres, Ketel Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks, Wander Franco from the Tampa Bay Rays, and David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Let's start with the big T, Fernando Tatís Jr. This guy's had All-Star numbers this year with a .277/.339/.515 slash line, 15 home runs, 40 RBI, and 14 stolen bases. He did have a rocky start to the season due to a suspension for violating MLB's performance-enhancing substance policy, but let's not let that overshadow the fact that he's been absolutely ripping it up since his return. He's one of the main reasons the Padres could be on the cusp of a second-half turnaround1.
Next, we have Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays. The man's got a .286/.347/.463 slash line, nine home runs, 41 RBI, and 26 stolen bases. He's been a key player for the Rays, who currently have the best record in the American League. It's a travesty that his contribution hasn't been recognized with an All-Star spot.
Ketel Marte from the Diamondbacks is another major snub. With a slash line of .289/.369/.508, 15 home runs, and 44 RBI, Marte's been a powerhouse on the field. He's been instrumental in the Diamondbacks' solid performance this season, and his ability to play multiple positions like shortstop and center field only adds to his value.
Lastly, let's talk about the Pirates' closer, David Bednar. The guy's been a rock at the back end of the bullpen with a 1.44 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 16 saves, and 37 strikeouts in 31.1 innings. His performance might not have made the same waves as the big-market players, but the National League might just regret not having him in the late innings if they're leading.
In short, while the All-Star rosters are stacked, the absence of these top-tier talents is quite the oversight. It just goes to show you, sometimes, the politics of the game overshadow the raw performance. Let's hope these guys use the snub as fuel for the second half of the season. They've got something to prove, and I can't wait to see them prove it. Who do you think the biggest All Star Game Snub was?