In a universe of nearly 700 players in MLB, there are generally “injustices” when it comes to choosing who will make up the National and American League teams for the All-Star Game.
One of the absences that has attracted attention is that of Cody Bellinger, the New York Yankees outfielder, who has made it clear that his performance in the 2025 season deserved to be called. However, the votes in each category were designated in time and form.
With a batting average of .281, 13 home runs and 48 RBIs, Bellinger has been a production machine for the Yankees. His OPS+ of 124 and a WAR of 2.6 ranks him as one of the most valuable outfielders in the league.
The statistics are an argument for his calls and confirmations to represent his teams in the Summer Game, but sometimes the fan looks more for the players on his team than for the stars who have better numbers.
The factors that have left Cody Bellinger out of the 2025 All-Star Game
On the other hand, Javier Baez of the Detroit Tigers was selected as a starter in the All-Star Game, even though his numbers are not as impressive. Baez has maintained a .279 average with nine home runs and 37 RBIs. Although his defense in center field has been outstanding, his 2.2 WAR does not reach the impact that Bellinger has had in the field. This is one of the elements why it has been decided by the Tigers representative rather than Yankees.
On the offensive side, Cody Bellinger has hit .458 in the last six games, which is a sign of his ability to turn a game around. His ability to hit the ball out of the park and his consistency at the plate have made him a mainstay for the Bronx Bombers. Fans wonder how it is possible that a player of his caliber was not chosen to represent the American League in the midseason classic.
The All-Star Game, a reward for consistency halfway through the season
The so-called Summer Game is a celebration of the best talent in baseball, and many believe Bellinger was unfairly overlooked, along with Juan Soto, who many also felt had reason to be called up. His contribution is not only reflected in the statistics, but also in his presence on the field, where he has made several defensive gems that have saved crucial runs for his team.
In conclusion, while Baez is undoubtedly a talented player, Bellinger’s numbers speak for themselves. Yankees and baseball fans alike will be hoping that next year’s selections will more accurately reflect the real impact of the players on the field. The controversy over the Tigers player’s selection over “Belli” is sure to be a talking point until the next All-Star Game, which will take place on Tuesday, July 15, in Atlanta, Georgia.
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