The All-Star Game starters have been unveiled, showcasing a mix of familiar faces and surprising newcomers. While perennial stars like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge headline the rosters, several first-timers and unexpected selections have stirred up the excitement. This year’s announcement highlights the dynamic nature of baseball, where emerging talent and resurgent veterans can steal the spotlight.
From the National League’s mix of power hitters and defensive stalwarts to the American League’s blend of established stars and rookie sensations, the All-Star Game promises to be a thrilling showcase of baseball’s best. The selections reflect not only individual performance but also the compelling narratives that have unfolded throughout the season.
In this article, we’ll break down the full list of All-Star Game starters, spotlighting the biggest surprises, feel-good stories, and early snubs. We’ll analyze the key players from both leagues, examining their stats and contributions to their respective teams. Plus, we’ll offer insights into potential pitching matchups and who might take the mound to start this midsummer classic.
National League All-Stars: Ohtani Leads the Way
The National League roster is brimming with talent, led by the sensational Shohei Ohtani. As the leading vote-getter, Ohtani’s impact on the game is undeniable. Despite his limited pitching appearances this season, his offensive prowess has been MVP-worthy, leading the league in runs, home runs, and slugging percentage. His presence guarantees excitement for fans.
Joining Ohtani are established stars like Freddie Freeman, Manny Machado, and Francisco Lindor. Freeman’s consistent performance at first base, Machado’s power at third, and Lindor’s resurgence at shortstop solidify the NL’s infield. In the outfield, Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return from injury adds another layer of excitement. His immediate impact proves why he remains one of the game’s elite players. Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Cubs earned his first All-Star nod thanks to his exceptional fielding and improved hitting. Kyle Tucker rounds out the starting outfield.
“Ohtani has made three starts in his return to pitching this season, but his fifth straight All-Star selection is all about his bat, which remains as good as any in the National League,” notes a recent report. This sentiment underscores Ohtani’s significant contribution even when not on the mound.
Will Smith rounds out the NL starters at catcher, adding to a formidable lineup ready to compete against the AL’s best.
Pete Crow-Armstrong: A First-Time All-Star Sensation
One of the most exciting stories in the National League is the emergence of Pete Crow-Armstrong. This young outfielder has quickly become one of baseball’s best all-around players. His elite running and fielding skills are now complemented by a potent bat, making him a force to be reckoned with. Crow-Armstrong’s performance has been pivotal in the Cubs’ ascent to first place in the NL Central.
Ranking fifth in the majors in fWAR, Crow-Armstrong trails only Ohtani in the NL. His aggressive approach at the plate, combined with his defensive prowess, sets him apart. “Already an elite runner and fielder, Crow-Armstrong has become an elite hitter as well, and that’s made him one of baseball’s best all-around players,” as noted by analysts. His selection is a testament to his rapid development and impact on the game.
Sharing the outfield with teammate Kyle Tucker, Crow-Armstrong’s presence adds youth and dynamism to the NL roster. His energy and skill will be on full display as he makes his All-Star debut.
American League All-Stars: Judge Leads a Talented Roster
Aaron Judge, the leading vote-getter in the American League, headlines a roster filled with power and potential. His numbers this season surpass even his remarkable performance last year, positioning him as a frontrunner for MVP. Judge leads the majors in batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage, making him a dominant force at the plate.
Joining Judge are Vladimir Guerrero Jr., José Ramirez, and Gleyber Torres, forming a formidable core of offensive talent. However, the biggest surprise in the AL lineup is Jacob Wilson, the Athletics’ rookie shortstop. His unexpected selection has sparked debate, but his impressive debut season cannot be ignored.
“This is Judge’s fifth-straight All-Star selection and the seventh of his career,” highlighting his consistent excellence and popularity among fans. His leadership and performance set the tone for the AL squad.
The AL outfield also features Riley Greene and Javier Baez, adding depth and excitement to the lineup. Ryan O’Hearn rounds out the starting lineup at DH, completing a team ready to challenge the NL’s best.
Jacob Wilson: Rookie Sensation and All-Star Starter
The selection of Jacob Wilson as the starting shortstop for the American League is undoubtedly the biggest surprise of this year’s All-Star announcement. As a rookie for the Athletics, Wilson has burst onto the scene with an impressive debut season. His selection ahead of established stars like Bobby Witt Jr. has raised eyebrows, but his performance speaks for itself.
Wilson’s batting average ranks among the league’s best, and he is an early favorite for AL Rookie of the Year. His impact on the Athletics has been significant, providing a spark to the team. “Wilson is only the third A’s position player elected as an All-Star Game starter since 1993,” underscoring the rarity and significance of his achievement.
While some may question his selection over more seasoned players, Wilson’s inclusion highlights the excitement and unpredictability of baseball. His performance in the All-Star Game will be closely watched as he represents the future of the game.
Notable Snubs and Controversial Selections
As with every All-Star announcement, there are always players who feel they were snubbed. In the National League, James Wood and Corbin Carroll are notable omissions. Both players rank high in fWAR and have been instrumental to their teams’ success. The Dodgers’ strong organizational presence and the popularity of other outfielders overshadowed their achievements.
In the American League, Bobby Witt Jr.’s exclusion is a major talking point. Despite a near-MVP season, he lost out to Jacob Wilson, sparking debate among fans and analysts. Jeremy Pena, another deserving candidate, was also overlooked due to injury.
These snubs highlight the difficult decisions that go into All-Star selections, where popularity and team representation often play a role alongside performance. The debate over who should have made the team adds to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the game.
Feel-Good Stories: Lindor and O’Hearn’s Resurgence
Amidst the surprises and snubs, there are also heartwarming stories of players who have overcome challenges and earned their place among the All-Stars. Francisco Lindor’s selection marks his first All-Star start and his first selection since 2019. After a challenging stint with the Mets, Lindor has rediscovered his form, reminding fans of his earlier days in Cleveland.
Ryan O’Hearn’s journey to the All-Star Game is another inspiring tale. After struggling with the Royals, O’Hearn found new life with the Orioles, becoming one of the league’s most productive hitters. “O’Hearn is on track for a career year almost across the board offensively,” highlighting his remarkable turnaround.
These stories add a human element to the All-Star Game, celebrating the perseverance and dedication of players who have battled adversity to achieve success.
Potential Pitching Matchups: Wheeler vs. Skubal?
As the All-Star Game approaches, speculation turns to who will take the mound as the starting pitchers. In the National League, Zack Wheeler is a strong candidate. Despite making two previous All-Star teams, he has only faced one batter. This year could be his chance to shine.
Other contenders in the NL include Paul Skenes and Logan Webb. All three pitchers have had stellar seasons, making it a difficult choice. “Hard to go wrong with this group,” notes a baseball insider, highlighting the depth of pitching talent in the National League.
In the American League, Tarik Skubal is the frontrunner. After a unanimous Cy Young selection last year, he has continued to dominate. His exceptional strikeout-to-walk ratio and low WHIP make him an ideal candidate to start the game. Hunter Brown and Garrett Crochet are also in the mix, but Skubal’s track record gives him the edge.
A potential matchup between Wheeler and Skubal would be a thrilling showdown, pitting two of the game’s best pitchers against each other on the All-Star stage.
Conclusion: A Showcase of Baseball’s Best
The 2025 All-Star Game starters represent a diverse mix of talent, from established superstars like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge to emerging stars like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Jacob Wilson. The selections highlight the excitement and unpredictability of baseball, where unexpected performances and inspiring stories capture the hearts of fans.
While there are always debates over snubs and controversial picks, the All-Star Game remains a celebration of the sport’s best players and a showcase of their incredible abilities. From the power of the hitters to the skill of the pitchers, the game promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
As the midsummer classic approaches, fans eagerly anticipate the matchups and moments that will define this year’s All-Star Game. Whether it’s Ohtani’s dominance at the plate, Judge’s towering home runs, or a dominant pitching performance from Wheeler or Skubal, the game is sure to deliver excitement and memories that will last a lifetime.
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