The 2026 MLB All-Star Game is just around the corner, and while the voting process has been generally fair, there are some players who deserve more recognition. Here are 10 players who have been overlooked, but should be considered for the All-Star team:
Dillon Dingler (Catcher, Detroit Tigers): Dingler is a defensive powerhouse, consistently ranking among the top catchers in defensive metrics. This season, he's also shown an impressive bat, with a .358/.390/.774 slash line and 16 home runs. His overall performance, including his defensive prowess, makes him a strong contender for an All-Star spot.
Nick Kurtz (First Baseman, Oakland Athletics): Kurtz had a breakthrough season last year, earning unanimous AL Rookie of the Year honors. This year, he's continued to excel, leading the A's to a fun and competitive team. While his teammate Shea Langeliers is leading the catcher voting, Kurtz is stuck at fourth among first basemen. His on-base streak and overall performance make him a strong candidate for an All-Star spot.
Randy Arozarena (Outfielder, Tampa Bay Rays): Arozarena has been a consistent performer for the Rays, who have had a surprising season. He's not the flashiest player, but his consistent performance and contributions to the team make him a strong All-Star candidate. Arozarena has been a key player for the Rays, and his performance this season deserves recognition.
Alex Montgomery (Second Baseman, Chicago White Sox): Montgomery had a strong rookie season and has continued to improve this year, particularly on defense. He's among the top 30 players in fWAR and is hitting for power. His performance this season, especially on defense, makes him a strong candidate for an All-Star spot.
Munetaka Murakami (First Baseman, Chicago White Sox): Murakami has been a revelation for the White Sox, who have had a remarkable turnaround. He's leading the team in home runs and has been a key contributor to their success. While he's not in the top two in any category, his performance and the team's success make him a strong All-Star candidate.
Chris Goodman (Catcher, Colorado Rockies): Goodman has been the best player on the Rockies for two straight seasons. This year, he's leading all NL catchers in home runs and OPS. His power is no fluke, and he's been even better on the road. Goodman's performance and the team's struggles make him a strong candidate for an All-Star spot.
Sam Turang (Second Baseman, Milwaukee Brewers): Turang has been a hidden gem for the Brewers, who have had a strong season. He's leading second basemen in OPS and is having the best season of his career. His performance and the team's success make him a strong candidate for an All-Star spot.
Merill Kelly (Outfielder, Miami Marlins): Kelly has emerged as a fantastic and magnetic player for the Marlins. He plays with verve and flamboyance, and his performance this season, including a high batting average and stolen bases, makes him a strong candidate for an All-Star spot.
Jordan Walker (Outfielder, St. Louis Cardinals): Walker is leading the Cardinals in home runs and OPS, and his performance this season has been impressive. While he's not in the top two in any category, his overall performance and the team's success make him a strong All-Star candidate.
Juan Soto (Outfielder, San Diego Padres): Soto is a superstar in the making, and his performance this season has been outstanding. While the NL outfield is crowded, Soto's athleticism, highlight-reel plays, and MVP Award finishes make him a strong candidate for an All-Star spot.
In conclusion, while the All-Star voting process has been generally fair, these 10 players have been overlooked and deserve more recognition. Their performances and contributions to their teams make them strong candidates for an All-Star spot, and it's time for fans to take notice and vote for them.
