Due to injuries and starting pitchers making starts next Sunday, the just-released All-Star teams aren’t set in stone. I haven’t had a lot of time to get worked up over omissions and mistakes, but I’m pleasantly surprised by some of the names on and off the list.

Without doing any research, I can’t recall the last time so few members from the previous World Series teams appearing on the subsequent AS team. This year only one Phillie, Nick Castellanos made the NL team as a reserve outfielder. Personally, I’m disappointed that Houston starter, Christian Javier, did not make the AL staff. Whether holding a grudge or not, the fans did not select any Astros to start, but Yordan Alvarez and LHP Framber Valdez were added.

In a return to the 1970’s when it seemed the NL infield was Reds/Dodgers dominated, the AL infield is essentially all-Rangers starting and all Jays subbing. We’ll see if these two teams dominate the next few years.

Thank goodness for the requirement that every team is represented because both central divisions are getting zero respect this year. Amazingly, Nolan Arenado made the NL for the 300th time-he is the only Cardinal. The surprising Pirates are sending right-handed starter, Mitch Keller. The two first place clubs, the Reds and Brewers are each sending only one player, relievers Alexis Diaz and Devin Williams, respectively. Whereas the disappointing Cubs are sending three players: Marcus Stroman and Dansby Swanson. Recall, I endorsed Stroman and Steele yesterday.

The even more pathetic AL Central didn’t fare any better. The “first place” Twins are only sending RHP Sonny Gray, the Royals will be repped by catcher, Salvador Perez, the White Sox by OF, Luis Robert Jr, Detroit is sending RHP Michael Lorenzen, and the Guardians-two, third baseman Jose Ramirez and closer Emmanuel Clase.

Over the next few days, we’ll be inundated with stories about first time all-stars, odd connections and out of nowhere stars. I’ve already spotted a few fun connections-which I know far better writers will unearth.

Congrats to everyone listed and the 15-20 replacements!

Here’s the list: 2023 MLB All-Star pitchers, reserves, complete rosters