​There have been a number of notable MLB All-Star snubs this year, but Zack Wheeler stands out as perhaps the most glaring. The Philadelphia Phillies’ ace has been among the sport’s elite pitchers all season, posting a 9-1 record with a 2.28 ERA, a 0.91 WHIP, and a 4.3 WAR across 14 starts. He underscored that form again on Tuesday by carving up the Cincinnati Reds, racking up 14 strikeouts over seven innings of one-run ball. Following the Phillies’ 4-1 victory, Wheeler did not mask his frustration about not earning a spot on the National League All-Star team this year, suggesting that his pitching schedule played a decisive role in keeping him off the roster.
“I feel like that was kind of a reminder for whoever needs to be reminded,” Wheeler said in his postgame interview. “It pisses me off and it’s kind of BS. Maybe if I wasn’t necessarily right in there, I wouldn’t be saying this, but I feel like I’ve earned it… Just because I pitch on a certain day, I can’t pitch in the All-Star Game or even be there, or get the recognition for it.”
If you have a take you want to share or you’re looking to join a growing Phillies community, feel free to comment on our content and engage with staff and fellow fans alike.
Wheeler is lined up to start again on Sunday, which will be the final game before the All-Star Break. There is a rule in place that generally prevents starters who pitch on that Sunday from appearing in Tuesday’s All-Star Game in order to protect their health, which means Wheeler may be sidelined regardless of his performance or his right to represent the league.
Whether or not Wheeler earns a spot in the All-Star Game this year, his point remains valid: he is among the sport’s best hurlers and deserves consideration for the honor. Although he’s already claimed three All-Star selections, there is a strong argument that he should be awarded a fourth turn, particularly given the level he has shown this season. He has performed at a higher level than several pitchers who were chosen instead of him, making the snub even more conspicuous to those who follow his contributions closely.
More MLB coverage: Don Mattingly shares his thoughts on the Phillies’ ace’s mysterious road woes, adding another layer to the ongoing discussion about how to evaluate deserving All-Star choices. This debate will continue to resonate with fans and analysts as the season unfolds.