Phillies Criticize MLB for Excluding Sánchez, Suárez in All-Star Selections

The Controversy Surrounding Jacob Misiorowski's All-Star Selection

One of the most talked-about stories during the 2025 MLB All-Star Game is the inclusion of Milwaukee Brewers rookie pitcher Jacob Misiorowski on the National League squad. However, this decision has sparked controversy among some Philadelphia Phillies players who feel that other members of their team were more deserving of the honor.

Several Phillies players have expressed their frustration with MLB’s selection process, arguing that Misiorowski was chosen over pitchers Cristopher Sánchez and Ranger Suárez, as well as shortstop Trea Turner. The only Phillies representative at the game in Atlanta will be designated hitter Kyle Schwarber. While Zach Wheeler was selected for the game, he opted out to take time off for rest.

The main point of contention is that Misiorowski has only made five starts in his major-league career, compared to Sánchez, who has made 18 starts this season with a 2.59 ERA and 7-2 record, along with 116 strikeouts in 107 2/3 innings. Suárez, on the other hand, has a 1.94 ERA, 7-3 record, and 78 strikeouts in 83 2/3 innings. Both pitchers were reportedly offered All-Star nods by MLB if they agreed to pitch, but they declined, choosing to rest instead. In Sánchez’s case, this decision cost him a $200,000 bonus, which the Phillies eventually covered with a $50,000 payment.

Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto commented on the situation, stating, “That’s just how MLB does it now.” He added that while there’s nothing wrong with Misiorowski, Sánchez and Suárez were more deserving of the spot. Nick Castellanos also criticized the selection process, comparing it to the “Savannah Bananas,” a reference to a baseball team known for its entertainment value rather than traditional performance metrics.

Trea Turner took a more direct stance, saying, “Yeah, 100 percent. I mean, it’s not the All-Star Game in the sense that the best players go there or people who have had the best season. It’s whoever sells the most tickets or has been put on social media the most. That’s essentially what it’s turned into.”

Turner, who is batting .292/.345/.437, leads the NL with 111 hits, 18 doubles, 11 home runs, 40 RBI, and 24 stolen bases, has clearly been a standout performer this season. Meanwhile, Misiorowski has impressed with his performance in just five games, compiling a 2.81 ERA, 4-1 record, and 33 strikeouts in 25 1/3 innings. His fastball averages 99.3 mph, with occasional spikes above 100 mph, and he throws a slider averaging 94.4 mph and a changeup at 92.2 mph.

Misiorowski’s height and long arm action give him an advantage, allowing him to release the ball closer to home plate, which can make it harder for batters to react. His performance has certainly drawn attention, especially from fans and the media.

The debate over Misiorowski’s selection raises an important question: What is the purpose of the All-Star Game? Should it serve as a platform to promote MLB to a broader audience, or should it reward players based on their performance during the first half of the season?

This issue also brings up another layer: Should the game prioritize star power and fan appeal, or focus on statistical achievement? While some argue that the All-Star Game should highlight the best players, others believe that it should reflect the popularity and marketability of the athletes.

It’s worth noting that Misiorowski’s selection isn’t entirely unprecedented. Last season, Pittsburgh Pirates rookie Paul Skenes was named to the NL squad and even started the game after making 11 appearances. His inclusion was driven by fan interest and the desire to promote young talent, which many believe benefits the sport.

Ultimately, the debate over the All-Star Game selection process highlights the evolving nature of how players are recognized and celebrated in modern baseball. Whether the focus should be on performance, popularity, or a combination of both remains a topic of discussion among players, fans, and analysts alike.