May has just begun and All-Star voting is not even open yet, but who says you can’t start picking your All-Star roster?
As a reminder, both the National League and American League get 33 roster spots and each team gets at least one representative. The 33rd spot on each roster is a special selection by Rob Manfred and the league office. Last year, Albert Pujols and Miguel Cabrera received those honors.
There are 10 starters for each side now with the addition of the permanent DH for both leagues. The American League was a little easier to decipher than the National League grouping (which you can read here) after a month of play.
Picking the early edition of the American League All-Star team for 2023
Catcher:
This is perhaps the toughest position in the American League to settle on a starter. Both Adley Rutschman (BAL) and Jonah Heim (TEX) have been great so far. Oddly enough, both catchers are also switch hitters. Heim has the higher average and OPS, but Rutschman has played in five more contests. So depending on criteria for voters, this could go either way. However, I think Rutschman will get the nod due to games played and a little more name recognition.
Cal Raleigh (SEA) and Salvador Perez (KC) are names to keep an eye on as well.
First baseman:
The best first baseman in the American League to start the season has been Yandy Diaz. Diaz has been a major factor in the historic start by the Tampa Bay Rays. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (TOR) has been the closest to matching his production but, as of now, Diaz should be penciled in as the starter. Guerrero Jr., Anthony Rizzo (NYY) and Nathaniel Lowe (TEX) will make their push for the honor.
Second baseman:
Just like the National League, the AL second base position is rather uncontested at the moment. Texas Ranger Marcus Semien has been phenomenal in the early portion of the season. Whitt Merrifield (KC), Brandon Lowe (TB) and Mauricio Dubon (HOU) have all been worthy candidates for a reserve spot behind Semien.
Third baseman:
Speaking of uncontested, Matt Chapman (TOR) has been the best third baseman in all of baseball in the first month. He currently leads the MLB in hits, doubles and OPS, while being tied for third in RBI. His 15 doubles are six more than Rafael Devers in second place. Here’s a bold prediction: Matt Chapman will be the All-Star starter at third base for the American League barring injury.
Shortstop:
The Toronto Blue Jays have a really good left side of the infield. Bo Bichette leads the Majors in hits amongst all players with 43. He should be considered the early favorite to start here as Wander Franco (TB) is the only legitimate other All-Star shortstop in the AL.
Outfield:
Mike Trout (LAA) and Randy Arozarena (TB) seem to be obvious candidates as starters. Trout has the clout and most fans will remember Arozarena’s come up in the playoffs just a few seasons ago. The third spot is where it really gets interesting.
Alex Verdugo (BOS), Austin Hays (BAL), Jarred Kelenic (SEA), Adolis Garcia (TEX) and Aaron Judge (NYY) have earned strong consideration. Due to the rule that every team must be represented, guys like Edward Olivares (KC) and Esteury Ruiz (OAK) could slide in as reserves this year.
One would have to assume the voting base of Aaron Judge could land him in that third spot, although he is currently dealing with an injury.
Starting Pitcher:
As of today, the American League All-Star starting pitcher has to be Sonny Gray. The resurgence of the Minnesota Twins ace has been fun to watch. After a stellar start to his career, Gray has bounced around some, but seems to have found his footing with Minnesota. Gerrit Cole and Luis Castillo are worthy candidates if Gray falls off, but as long as he does not fall off a cliff, this honor is his to lose.
Cole (NYY) and Castillo (SEA) should certainly be named to the squad as reserves should that not be named starters. Two new names are in the mix this season as well. Eduardo Rodriguez (DET) and Hunter Brown (HOU) are off to solid starts and Rodriguez is the likely lone representative for the Tigers.
Check back for an updated look as the season inches closer to the All-Star Game.