Jimenez, Not Castellanos Named To AL All-Star Team
The Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star squads for the American League and National League were announced on Sunday. And to the surprise of many, the Detroit Tigers lone representative will not be outfielder Nick Castellanos, but relief pitcher Joe Jimenez (Pictured above).
Jimenez, in his first full season with the Tigers, has been the main set-up man for closer Shane Greene throughout much of the season. But with an injury to Greene that is sidelining him right now, Jimenez has taken over the closer's role for the time being.
Many thought Castellanos, with his .301 batting average with 15 home runs and 55 runs batted in (RBI), would make the Mid-Summer Classic as a reserve. But it's Jimenez, with his 4-1 record, 3 saves and 46 strikeouts compared to 12 walks that will get him to Washington, D.C. for the All-Star Game.
Castellanos could still be named as a reserve to the AL squad in case of an injury to another player. But he is currently not a part of the American League Final Vote for the last roster spot for the AL, as of Sunday's original announcement of the squads.
The 89th MLB All-Star Game is set for Tuesday, July 17th at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.