Sun Jul 13 01:30:00 UTC 2025: **MLB All-Star Rosters See Late Shuffles Due to Rest and Strategy**
**Los Angeles, CA** – Several changes shook the Major League Baseball All-Star Game rosters Friday, as players opted out, opening the door for first-time participants and strategic replacements. The moves highlight the increasing emphasis on player health and late-season positioning as the midsummer classic approaches.
Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler, a strong contender to start for the National League, will forgo his third All-Star appearance to rest and prepare for the second half, the Phillies announced. His spot will be filled by San Diego Padres reliever Adrian Morejon, boasting a stellar 1.71 ERA across 45 appearances. The Padres now boast three relief pitchers on the NL roster, a feat unmatched in team history.
In the American League, Detroit Tigers starter Casey Mize, with a 9-2 record and a 2.63 ERA for the league-leading Tigers, will step in for Boston Red Sox strikeout king Garrett Crochet. New York Yankees starter Carlos Rodón will replace teammate Max Fried, marking Rodón’s third All-Star selection. Fried, now a Yankee after years with the Braves, could face his former team in the first series after the All-Star break in Atlanta.
Seattle Mariners outfielder Randy Arozarena will replace Julio Rodríguez, who will use the break to rest. While he had a slow start to the season, he has picked up production and has 15 homers, 15 steals and a 133 OPS+.
Los Angeles Angels’ Yusei Kikuchi’s decision not to participate paved the way for Tampa Bay Rays starter Drew Rasmussen to join the AL squad. Rasmussen carries a 2.82 ERA over 89 1/3 innings.
Finally, the Kansas City Royals saw two players added to the roster. Maikel Garcia will take the place of Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Brandon Lowe, while Carlos Estévez, co-leader in AL saves, will fill the spot vacated by Texas Rangers starter Jacob deGrom.
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