Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cristopher Sánchez has been named as a replacement for Atlanta lefty Chris Sale in the upcoming All-Star Game, marking his first appearance in the prestigious event. Sale, who is scheduled to start for the Braves on Sunday, will not be participating in the Midsummer Classic, paving the way for Sánchez to join the roster.
Sánchez's inclusion brings the Phillies' total number of All-Stars to eight, setting a new franchise record. The game is set to take place on Tuesday night at the home of the Texas Rangers, with Philadelphia heading into the break as the only team in Major League Baseball with over 60 victories.
With this selection, Sánchez becomes the 38th first-time All-Star and the ninth replacement player, with five of them coming from the National League. The total number of All-Stars now stands at 73, with the 27-year-old Sánchez boasting a 7-4 record and a 2.96 ERA this season.
Joining Sánchez from the Phillies' roster are right-hander Zack Wheeler and lefty Ranger Suárez, making it a total of three pitchers from Philadelphia in the All-Star Game. The team also has three starters in first baseman Bryce Harper, shortstop Trea Turner, and third baseman Alec Bohm, along with relievers Jeff Hoffman and Matt Strahm.
Meanwhile, in other All-Star Game roster updates, Seattle's Logan Gilbert was replaced by teammate Andrés Muñoz, while Minnesota's Willi Castro, Baltimore's Anthony Santander, and Jordan Westburg were added to the American League roster in place of injured players.
On the National League side, Pittsburgh's Paul Skenes, Cincinnati's Elly De La Cruz and Hunter Greene, and San Francisco's Heliot Ramos were named as replacements for various players unable to participate due to injuries.
With the All-Star Game approaching, baseball fans are eagerly anticipating the showcase of talent from across the league, with standout players like Sánchez getting the opportunity to shine on a national stage.
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