MLB All-Star Game 2025 Format: How are players, coaches selected and what are the rules of the exhibition game?

The 2025 MLB All-Star Game promises to be a thrilling event with its revamped format. On July 15 at Truist Park in Atlanta, we’ll find out how the stars and coaches are chosen and what new rules such as ABS are coming into play

From the mass voting, the ABS system and even the innovative tiebreaker by Derby, this format enhances the experience for fans and reinforces the essence of the game.

How are players selected in the MLB All-Star Game format?

Fan vote – starters: Fans choose online (MLB app or website) in two phases:

Reserves selection – player ballot and MLB

1. Player vote: 17 players per league (8 pitchers and 9 position players).
2. Commissioner’s Picks: Here 6 players per league are added to ensure representation from each club.

Final fan vote

1. After the announcement of 32 players per league, fans vote for an MVP from among five nominees, whose voice accounts for 20% of the result.

Selection of coaches within the All-Star Game

Each All-Star Game manager is the previous year’s minor league championship-winning coach:

• Dave Roberts (Dodgers) for the National League.
• Aaron Boone (Yankees) for the American League.

Honorary coaches from other previous teams also participate.

Rules and innovations for the 2025 All-Star Game

Traditional uniforms:

• This year, the regular home/away jerseys will be worn during the All-Star Game, while on Workout Day and Derby, special uniforms will be worn

ABS – Balls and Strikes Review:

• For the first time, the Automated Balls & Strikes (ABS) system will be tested during the All-Star Game:
• Each team has two challenges. If they get it right, they keep it.
• Only pitchers, catchers and batters can initiate the review with a visible gesture

If the score is tied after nine innings, it is decided by a mini Home Run Derby: three batters per team, with three swings each. The winning team wins the game.

This new format can work because it combines the popular vote with the experience of players and managers, ensuring fairness and merit. The ABS system improves accuracy and reduces controversy, seeking more truthful results. The tiebreaker with Derby adds excitement at the end, making the All-Star Game spectacular and a festival of stars.