The 2026 MLB All-Star Game is just around the corner, and while the voting process has been generally fair, there are a few players who deserve more recognition. Here are 10 players who have been overlooked but should be considered for the All-Star team:
Dillon Dingler (Catcher, Tigers): Dingler is a defensive powerhouse, consistently ranking among the top catchers in defensive metrics. His bat has come alive this season, with a .358/.390/.774 slash line and 16 home runs through June. According to FanGraphs WAR, Dingler is a top-10 player in the sport, and his performance this season is a testament to his all-around talent.
Nick Kurtz (First Baseman, Athletics): Kurtz was the unanimous AL Rookie of the Year last season and has become a cornerstone of the A's fun-loving team. While his teammate Shea Langeliers leads among catchers, Kurtz is stuck at fourth among first basemen. His 48-game on-base streak and 1.243 June OPS showcase his consistency and improving performance. Kurtz's FanGraphs WAR ranking of eighth in the Majors further solidifies his case for an All-Star selection.
Randy Arozarena (Outfielder, Rays): Arozarena has been a consistent performer for the Rays, who have had a surprising season. He's climbed the all-time franchise leaderboards, ranking fourth in hits, seventh in homers, and fifth in runs. Arozarena's performance this season is a testament to his growth and should be recognized with an All-Star selection.
Alex Montgomery (Second Baseman, White Sox): Montgomery, who finished fifth in AL Rookie of the Year voting last season, has improved this year, especially on defense. He's among the top 30 players in fWAR and is hitting for power, with a chance at 40 home runs. Montgomery's performance has been crucial to the White Sox's success, and his case for an All-Star spot is strong.
Munetaka Murakami (First Baseman, White Sox): Murakami, who is out with a hamstring injury, has been a rising star in the MLB. His power and performance have been impressive, and he's a strong candidate for an All-Star selection. Murakami's talent and potential make him a player to watch in the future.
Chris Goodman (Catcher, Rockies): Goodman has been the best player on the Rockies for two straight seasons. He leads all NL catchers in homers and OPS, and his power is no fluke. Goodman's performance at Coors Field and on the road showcases his versatility and should be recognized with an All-Star selection.
Owen Turang (Outfielder, Brewers): Turang has had a career-best season, leading second basemen in OPS. His performance has been crucial to the Brewers' success, and his ranking third in voting behind Ozzie Albies and Bryson Stott seems criminally low. Turang's talent and consistency make him a strong candidate for an All-Star spot.
Merill Kelly (Outfielder, Marlins): Kelly has emerged as a fantastic and magnetic player for the Marlins. His athleticism, high average, and stolen bases make him a standout performer. Kelly's performance and personality should be recognized with an All-Star selection.
Jordan Walker (Outfielder, Cardinals): Walker is a top vote-getter and fourth in OPS among outfielders. His athleticism and performance have been impressive, and he's a strong candidate for an All-Star spot. Walker's talent and consistency make him a player to watch.
Juan Soto (Outfielder, Padres): Soto is a standout performer and has been in the top six of NL MVP Award voting twice. His athleticism and performance have been impressive, and he's a strong candidate for an All-Star spot. Soto's talent and consistency make him a player to watch.
In conclusion, while the voting process has been generally fair, these 10 players deserve more recognition and should be considered for the All-Star team. Their talent, consistency, and performance this season make them strong candidates for an All-Star selection.
