​Instead of relaxing on South Beach, Miami Marlins right-handed pitcher Max Meyer is taking part in the All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.That is because Meyer, alongside shortstop Otto Lopez, is one of the team’s two representatives in 2026, with both making their first All-Star selections.“It’s been cool. A lot of, like, gifts and stuff, meeting new people,” Meyer told Kevin Barral of Fish On First.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMeyer, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, dealt with injuries early in his career, including undergoing Tommy John surgery after just two starts in the 2022 season.Last season, the right-hander was off to a strong start before later undergoing season-ending left hip labral repair surgery early in the summer.There were times when sharing the field with the MLB’s best in mid-July seemed like a long shot for Meyer, but he kept working on his game, using a mix of pitches to mow down hitters.2026 has been a dream season for Meyer and his team, with the Marlins entering the break at 52-45 and holding a one-game lead for the final National League Wild Card spot.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIt took a record-setting June for the Marlins to get to this point, as the club entered June 1 searching for answers at 26-34.Through a career-high 19 starts this year, Meyer is 9-1 with an astounding 2.58 ERA across 108.0 innings.Meyer said he is excited to catch up with some of the players at the All-Star Game — notably former teammate Jesús Luzardo, who is now with the Philadelphia Phillies after spending four seasons with the Marlins.The 27-year-old didn’t hesitate to praise the teammate he currently shares the infield with: Otto Lopez.Lopez closed the first half leading the league in batting average (.334) and hits (127). Surprisingly, he will not be the National League’s starting shortstop, as that honor went to Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMeyer won’t pitch in Philadelphia because of his innings count, but he did tease when he’ll make his first start of the second half.”Second game in Milwaukee,” Meyer said. That start will come on July 18 at 4:10 p.m. ET against a Brewers club that is 59-37 and holds a five-game lead over the Cubs in the National League Central.When Meyer takes his place in the dugout Tuesday night, he won’t overlook the significance of the moment. His first All-Star appearance is a chance to reflect on his journey, while offering a preview of what may lie ahead.Join our ROUNDTABLE community! It’s free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.