There is no greater recognition for an MLB pitcher than being chosen to start in the All-Star Game. This accolade denotes not only outstanding skill on the mound but also a season that stands out among the best. Legendary pitchers such as Don Drysdale, Lefty Gomez, and Robin Roberts hold the unique honor of starting five All-Star Games. Following closely are Jim Palmer, Max Scherzer, and Randy Johnson, each with four starts to their name.
The 2024 MLB All-Star Game is set to be an exciting event, held at the home of the reigning champions, the Texas Rangers, at Globe Life Field. The spotlight will shine on the best of the American and National Leagues' pitchers, igniting a competitive fire that fans and players alike cherish.
American League Pitching Powerhouse
The American League's starting pitcher roster is stacked with talent, featuring Tyler Anderson, Corbin Burnes, Garrett Crochet, Logan Gilbert, Tanner Houck, Seth Lugo, Cole Ragans, and Tarik Skubal. Each of these pitchers has demonstrated prowess and excellence throughout the season. Logan Gilbert, who is scheduled to start next Sunday, continues to showcase his growing dominance, while Seth Lugo has emerged as a force to be reckoned with.
Seth Lugo's rise has been particularly noteworthy. The right-hander, who spent five years as a reliever with the Mets before transitioning to a full-time starting role with the Padres last season, has truly come into his own. After signing a two-year deal with the Royals last offseason, Lugo leads the league in wins, ERA, and WAR, and has pitched the most innings. Reflecting on Lugo's career year at age 34, it's hard not to be impressed. "He’s pitched like an ace all year, posting a career year. That's all kinds of fun," an analyst remarked.
The American League also boasts elite strikeout leaders in Crochet, Ragans, and Skubal. Corbin Burnes, a former Cy Young winner, adds further depth to an already formidable rotation, ready to bring their best against the National League's most fearsome batters.
National League's Star-Studded Lineup
Not to be outdone, the National League's starting pitchers include Tyler Glasnow, Shota Imanaga, Reynaldo López, Chris Sale, Paul Skenes, Ranger Suárez, Logan Webb, and Zack Wheeler. Each of these pitchers has played an instrumental role in their team's success.
Leading in innings pitched while ranking seventh in ERA, Logan Webb has been an epitome of durability and consistency. Sánchez leads the league in ERA, while Chris Sale stands out with his second-best ERA, top wins, and WHIP, holding the third spot in strikeouts as well. Tyler Glasnow tops the strikeout charts, illustrating the National League's deep and diverse pitching talent.
Among the roster, Paul Skenes’ story is particularly captivating. Making All-Star history, Skenes is the first pitcher ever taken No. 1 overall to make the All-Star team the following season. Starting the season in Triple-A under the cautious eye of the Pirates, Skenes has shone brightly through 10 starts, posting a 5-0 record with a 2.12 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 78 strikeouts over 59 1/3 innings. Although not qualified for the ERA title due to workload, his impact is undeniable. "Think about Skenes facing Altuve, Soto, and Judge and tell me you'd rather someone else start. C'mon. This is dream-type stuff," a commentator mused. Indeed, Skenes could face a lineup featuring Jose Altuve, Juan Soto, Aaron Judge, and Yordan Alvarez, promising a truly electric atmosphere.
The 2024 MLB All-Star Game promises to be a spectacular showcase of pitching talent. Both the American and National League sides are brimming with pitchers who have proven themselves throughout the season, ready to make their mark on one of the sport's grandest stages. This mid-summer classic at Globe Life Field will no doubt be one for the ages, celebrating both the historical and emerging talents that make baseball timelessly thrilling.