Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani became the first players confirmed for the 2025 All-Star Game after leading the first phase of fan voting. Both received the most support in their respective leagues, which automatically secured them a spot in the starting lineup without having to compete in the second round of selection.
Judge, the Yankees star, accumulated more than 4 million votes, the highest total among all Major League players. Ohtani, the Dodgers star, led the voting in the National League with nearly 4 million votes, earning his fifth consecutive start as designated hitter in this event.
Thanks to the system in place since 2022, the player with the most votes in each league automatically receives a starting spot in the All-Star Game. Judge and Ohtani were the only ones to achieve that status this year. The Yankees outfielder is having a brilliant season, hitting .361 with 28 home runs and a .719 OPS, figures that back him up as one of the best hitters of the year.
Ohtani, meanwhile, continues to prove his worth as a unique figure in modern baseball. With 28 home runs, a .291 average and a .633 OPS, his offensive impact remains key for the Dodgers. In addition, his return to the mound has added even more weight to his candidacy as one of the most complete players in recent history.
Atlanta awaits its protagonists
With their direct classification, both Judge and Ohtani will be there from the first pitch at Truist Park in Atlanta on July 15. The rest of the starters will be chosen in the second phase of voting, while the pitchers and reserves will be announced on July 6.
Although names like Ronald Acuna Jr, Juan Soto and Bobby Witt Jr. are still in the running to complete the rosters, the initial spotlight already has its owners. With their talent, consistency and popularity, Judge and Ohtani have consolidated their status as absolute references in Major League Baseball.
What Judge and Ohtani have achieved not only reflects their current performance, but also the weight their names carry in baseball culture. Being the only players to receive automatic starting status is a direct recognition by fans of their dominance, consistency and ability to generate excitement.
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