7 Big All-Star Voting Storylines to Follow
The 2024 MLB All-Star Game is just around the corner, and fans are already buzzing with excitement over the upcoming event. With fan voting underway to determine the starting position players for the game at Globe Life Field in Arlington, there are several intriguing storylines to keep an eye on as the voting progresses.
1. **Mike Trout’s Streak Coming to an End**
For the past 10 years, Mike Trout has been a fixture as a starting outfielder for the American League in the All-Star Game. However, with Trout sidelined due to knee surgery, his streak is expected to come to an end in 2024. Fans now have the opportunity to choose from strong candidates like Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Kyle Tucker to fill the void left by Trout.
2. **The Race for the Top Vote-Getter**
With last year’s top vote-getter, Ronald Acuña Jr., out due to injury, the competition for the title of the leading vote-getter is wide open. Players like Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Mookie Betts, and Shohei Ohtani are among the top contenders to clinch the coveted spot, with Judge having previously earned the title in 2022.
3. **AL Shortstop Showdown**
The battle for the starting shortstop position in the American League is heating up, with Gunnar Henderson, Bobby Witt Jr., and Corey Seager making strong cases for themselves. Henderson leads in WAR, Witt boasts impressive stats, and Seager has been on a hot streak, making the decision a tough one for fans.
4. **Betts and Harper’s Position Switches**
Superstars Mookie Betts and Bryce Harper have switched positions this season, with Betts at shortstop for the Dodgers and Harper at first base for the Phillies. Both players are vying for starting spots at their new positions, showcasing their versatility and impact on their respective teams.
5. **Salvador Perez’s Resurgence**
At 34 years old, Salvador Perez is having a standout season with the Royals, putting him in contention for his seventh All-Star Game starting nod. With impressive stats and a chance to join an exclusive group of catchers with multiple starting appearances, Perez’s performance is one to watch.
6. **Willson Contreras’ Bid for NL Catcher**
Willson Contreras is a frontrunner for the NL starting catcher position, aiming to become only the second Brewers catcher to earn the fan vote for the All-Star Game. With solid numbers and previous All-Star Game experience, Contreras is poised to make history at this year’s event.
7. **Jurickson Profar’s Comeback**
After a rocky start to his career, Jurickson Profar has emerged as a surprise standout this season, leading in on-base percentage and putting up impressive offensive numbers. With a chance to secure an All-Star starting spot, Profar’s redemption story is one to follow closely as the voting continues.
As the All-Star Game draws near, these storylines promise to add excitement and intrigue to the event, making it a must-watch for baseball fans everywhere.