The 94th Midsummer Classic, presented by Mastercard, is set to take place on July 16 at Globe Life Field, promising an evening of baseball brilliance and memorable moments. The game, scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on FOX, features an exciting mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, showcasing the best of Major League Baseball.
This year’s rosters are highlighted by 32 first-time All-Stars, bringing a refreshing energy to the game. Among the new faces, notable selections include the Phillies’ Alec Bohm and the Orioles’ Adley Rutschman, who will be making his first All-Star start since Terry Kennedy in 1987. Gunnar Henderson, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, has also earned his spot with an impressive first half.
However, the All-Star Game will also see familiar faces gracing the field. Thirteen players have earned their third consecutive nod or more, with Mookie Betts leading the pack with his eighth straight selection, and Freddie Freeman securing his sixth. Aaron Judge, the overall top vote-getter, is back to make up for his absence from the 2023 All-Star Game due to injury. Judge is leading baseball in home runs (32), RBIs (83), SLG (.688), and OPS (1.118) and will be joined by his teammate Juan Soto, forming one of the most formidable duos in baseball.
The 2024 rosters boast 24 internationally born All-Stars, representing a diverse array of countries. The Dominican Republic leads with 10 All-Stars, followed by Venezuela with six, Japan with two, Puerto Rico with two, and Canada, Cuba, Curaçao, and Mexico each with one. This international presence underscores the global appeal and talent pool of Major League Baseball.
The American League features a strong contingent of teammates, with the Astros, Guardians, Orioles, and Yankees each sending a pair of starters. Steven Kwan, leading baseball in batting average, will make his first start in his inaugural All-Star Game alongside teammate José Ramírez, who is making his sixth appearance. José Altuve will set a franchise record with his ninth appearance for the Astros.
Shohei Ohtani, a fan favorite, will make his fourth consecutive start, although he will not be able to serve as both the starting pitcher and designated hitter. Meanwhile, Jermaine Profar, in his 11th Major League season, becomes the fourth-most experienced first-time All-Star in history. Despite being sidelined by injury, Fernando Tatis Jr. would have made history as the first player to start All-Star Games both at shortstop and in the outfield.
The Phillies, boasting the best record in baseball (58-32), lead the National League with three elected starters and a total of seven All-Stars. Bryce Harper, the top vote-getter in the National League, is currently recovering from a left hamstring strain. It remains uncertain if he will take his seventh All-Star start, but his teammates Alec Bohm and Trea Turner are healthy and ready to represent the Phillies.
Manager Torey Lovullo will have the honor of leading the National League squad, bringing along his own player Ketel Marte, who won the fan vote at second base. William Contreras, making his first All-Star start behind the plate, follows in the footsteps of his older brother Willson, who started in 2018, 2019, and 2022. Christian Yelich, making his first All-Star roster since 2019, rounds out the notable selections for the National League.
The 2024 All-Star Game promises to be an exciting blend of seasoned stars and rising talents, set against the backdrop of the impressive Globe Life Field. With a diverse array of international players and an electric mix of newcomers and veterans, fans can expect a night of unforgettable baseball action. Tune in on July 16 to witness the best of Major League Baseball showcase their skills on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
