​NEW YORK — Pitchers Paul Skenes, Jacob Misiorowski and Max Meyer have been ruled out of the All-Star Game, with replacements announced for the National League roster: Riley O’Brien of St. Louis, Jesus Luzardo of Philadelphia, and Braxton Ashcraft of Pittsburgh will take their places in the July 14 showdown. In a separate update, Boston first baseman Willson Contreras was named as a replacement for Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who is opting to rest his sore back during the break.
Skenes, Misiorowski and Meyer were selected for the National League All-Star team while already scheduled to start their clubs’ final games before the break. That arrangement made it unlikely they would be able to pitch in the All-Star Game, opening the door for their fellow All-Star replacements.
Riley O’Brien comes into the role with 22 saves in 26 opportunities this season, having struck out 35 in 36 1/3 innings and posting a 3.72 ERA. Jesus Luzardo brings a 7-4 record with a 3.75 ERA and 125 strikeouts across 103 1/3 innings. Braxton Ashcraft, in his second major league season, sits at 9-3 with a 3.24 ERA through 18 starts, totaling 122 strikeouts in 108 1/3 innings. Notably, all three replacements are making their first All-Star appearance, marking a significant milestone in their careers.
Contreras, now a four-time All-Star, is on track for what could be the most productive season of his 11-year career in his first year with the Red Sox. His performance has been a standout as Boston navigates the midseason stretch, contributing power, consistency and veteran leadership at a crucial position. The adjustments to the All-Star lineup reflect Boston’s continued impact and the NL’s depth of pitching talent, with O’Brien, Luzardo and Ashcraft poised to contribute in meaningful ways when the midsummer classic unfolds.
As the All-Star Game nears, rosters continue to evolve due to injuries, rest, and strategic considerations, underscoring the uncertainty and excitement that accompany midseason showcase events. The substitutions highlight both the opportunities for emerging stars to shine on baseball’s biggest stage and the ongoing emphasis on rest and durability for top pitchers during the All-Star break. Fans will be watching to see how these new selections perform in a high-profile environment, as well as how Contreras and the rest of the All-Star contingent carry momentum into the second half of the season.