The Boston Red Sox are heading into next week’s All-Star Game in Atlanta with a trio of standout players who have made significant impacts on the team this season. Garrett Crochet, Aroldis Chapman, and Alex Bregman have all been selected by their peers, showing just how much they’ve contributed to the club’s efforts as they navigate a season that’s kept them hovering around .500.
Crochet, the left-handed starter who entered the weekend leading all of Major League Baseball with 144 strikeouts, has solidified his role in the Red Sox rotation. He’s achieved this milestone in his second consecutive All-Star selection after making his debut in the event last year. His ability to dominate from the mound has proven invaluable to the team.
Then there’s Chapman, who’s getting back to his All-Star form after a few seasons of ups and downs. The veteran closer will patrol the AL bullpen at Truist Park after an impressive turnaround this season, boasting a 1.25 ERA and 15 saves in just 39 appearances. His leadership in the late innings has provided the Red Sox with a reliable option when the game hangs in the balance.
Bregman’s journey back to the All-Star Game has been marked by challenges, including a quad strain that has sidelined him since late May. Nonetheless, prior to his injury, the third baseman had displayed his elite skills, hitting .299 with 11 home runs and an OPS of .938. His signing this past spring for three years at $120 million has already started to pay dividends for the franchise, even as he works to return from his injury.
Manager Alex Cora emphasized the recognition from fellow players, stating, “For your peers to select you, that means a lot.” He underscored the impact that Crochet, Chapman, and Bregman have had not only with their performance on the field but also in shaping the team culture off the field. The credit for these selections extends to chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, who orchestrated these signings over the winter.
As the Red Sox continue to chase consistency—currently standing at 46-45 following a sweep of the Nationals—it’s clear that Breslow’s offseason strategy is starting to bear fruit. His approach in identifying players who can thrive in Boston, perhaps underappreciated, is paying off. Crop that into context with last year’s All-Star selections—Rafael Devers, Jarren Duran, and Tanner Houck—and it’s evident the team is building depth through effective acquisitions.
Notably, catcher Carlos Narváez has been a pleasant surprise this season, ranking second among MLB rookies in fWAR and missing out on All-Star honors. His contributions, coupled with those of the other offseason signings, highlight a successful winter for Breslow, despite the challenges that lie ahead.
With the All-Star Game looming, the team takes pride in the recognition of these three players. Cora and Breslow both expressed confidence in their ability to lead, illustrating how their skills extend beyond individual stats to elevate the entire club. As Chapman and Crochet prepare for their roles at the Midsummer Classic, Bregman remains on the mend with a hopeful return in sight, marking a pivotal point for the Red Sox as they look to build momentum in the second half of the season.
