Due to Dexter Fowler and Yoenis Cespedes both being unable to play in the game because of injuries, Major League Baseball announced today that Colorado Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez and Miami Marlins outfielder Marcell Ozuna have replaced them as starters for the National League team.
Ozuna and Gonzalez were the highest ranked outfielders on the player’s ballot, which is why they were chosen to replace the fan-chosen starters. Replacing Fowler and Cespedes on the active NL roster are Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Starling Marte and Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce.
Gonzalez has played in 83 games this season for the Rockies, hitting .322/.370/.556 and clubbing 18 home runs so far. While some felt that Carlos Gonzalez was an unworthy All-Star candidate, there is ample evidence that he was not just deserving of being on the All-Star team but also earning this place in the starting lineup.
Gonzalez will also be participating in the Home Run Derby where his average distance of 422 feet per home run may make him a favorite.
Also of note, former Rockies pitcher and current San Diego Padres starter Drew Pomeranz has also received his first All-Star selection, as an injury replacement for the New York Mets Noah Syndergaard.