The 2017 MLB All-Star rosters were announced on Sunday, and the last-place Oakland A’s have one representative: first baseman Yonder Alonso. He will serve as a reserve on the bench, behind starter Justin Smoak of the Blue Jays.
Alonso’s selection was expected, as he has been one of Oakland’s best players and was a factor in the fan voting. He’s having a breakout season, with a career-high 17 homers and a 149 wRC+ that ranks 12th among all qualified MLB hitters. He deserved this nod, which he received from the ballots of his fellow players.
As an extra bonus, this year’s game is being played in Miami, where Alonso spent much of his childhood and attended both high school and college.