Being through roughly one third of the 2019 season, we’ve seen some fantastic starts from players around the league: Some players you expect it from, and some you do not. This article is going to keep you up to date on a few of the players you might not be too familiar with, but need to be, as we are about one month away from the all-star break. Whether it’s players new to the game, or finally had their breakout, you need to keep your eyes on these guys for all-star activities. You can now vote for these players, as well as your favorite players to make the 2019 all-star game on the MLB website.
- Derek Dietrich
Derek Dietrich is a 29-year-old second basemen and designated hitter who currently plays for the Cincinnati Reds. Dietrich was drafted in 2010 by the Tampa Bay Rays and would later be traded to the Miami Marlins. In 2019 the reds signed him to a minor league contract, where he impressed everyone watching with his power hitting skills. Through the 2019 season so far, Dietrich has already hit 17 home runs, as he quickly passed his career high for home runs in a season (previous record was 16). Hitting three home runs in one game twice this season has also helped him break the top 10 for home runs in the NL. In a post-game interview with the Cincinnati Enquirer, Dietrich stated that playing in the 2019 all-star game would be the “perfect script”, as the game is being held in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. He is making a strong case for himself to be included in the all-star festivities, and maybe the Home run Derby as well.
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
Son of the Vladimir Guerrero who made the Hall of Fame after 16 fantastic seasons, the rookie is making a splash in his first full season in the major leagues. Playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, Guerrero is making a strong push for the upcoming all-star game with an impressive stat line very early in his career. An on-base percentage of .308 has helped him look like a promising star to not only Blue Jays fans, but everyone else around the league. He also had the honors of winning minor league player of the year in 2018, as well as an NL player of the week award in early May. Guerrero has also stated he would be open to participating in the home run derby, hoping to follow his father’s footsteps. Vladimir Guerrero won the derby in 2007 and notched 449 home runs in his career.
- Josh Bell
Pirates first basemen and outfielder Josh Bell has been turning heads this season with his offensive efficiency. Leading the league in RBI and being 7th on ESPN’s batting ranks, Bell is on pace to shatter his own career records. Before making his MLB debut in 2016, he spent a significant amount of time in the minor leagues dealing with injuries. Now that he’s spent some time in the majors, 2019 looks to be his breakout season. Bell’s .338 batting average has him top 10 in the league for that statistic, as well as leading the league in doubles and extra base hits. There’s a good chance we see Bell make an appearance in Cleveland for the all-star game this year, as he’s on pace for a very impressive stat line this season. His 18 home runs could also make him a candidate for the Home run Derby.
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