​It took a few extra days than expected, but Braxton Ashcraft has earned his spot as an All-Star. As the Pirates’ top starting pitcher in 2026, Ashcraft has burst onto the scene in his first full major league season, establishing himself as a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s rotation. Through 18 starts, he has posted a 3.24 ERA, a 1.10 WHIP, and a impressive 122 strikeouts over 108.1 innings, signaling his emergence as one of the league’s most effective arms.
Ashcraft was initially left off the National League All-Star roster, but he was ultimately named as a replacement for Paul Skenes. Skenes was the lone Pirates representative originally chosen for the midsummer classic held in Philadelphia. At 26 years old, Ashcraft has delivered eye-popping numbers, boasting a 10.14 strikeouts per nine innings rate and standing out as one of the NL’s most surprising performers this season. He ranks among the league leaders in several key categories, including fourth in strikeouts (122) and fourth in innings pitched (108.1), while sitting 11th in ERA (3.24) and tied for ninth in wins (9-3).
The Pirates have thrived when Ashcraft takes the mound, posting a 12-6 record in games started by him. His ability to pile up strikeouts while maintaining a tight leash on walks has been a consistent theme. This season, there have been two starts in which Ashcraft has struck out 10 or more batters without issuing a free pass, underscoring his dominance on the mound. He has allowed two or fewer runs in 14 of his 18 outings, a testament to his reliability and consistency amid an otherwise volatile Pirates rotation.
Beyond pure statistics, Ashcraft’s presence has given Pittsburgh a reliable anchor at the front end of the rotation. His resilience and performance have provided the Pirates with a steadying influence as they navigate the ups and downs of a competitive season. In a year where the team has leaned on its youth and internal development, Ashcraft’s breakthrough has not only elevated his personal status but has also amplified the Pirates’ expectations for continued success in 2026.
Looking ahead, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14, at 8 p.m. at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Ashcraft’s selection reinforces the Pirates’ progress and highlights the contribution of a player who has transformed from a promising prospect into a bona fide star for Pittsburgh. As the season unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see how Ashcraft builds on this momentum and how his presence at the All-Star Game translates into continued excellence on the National League stage.