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2026 All‑Star roster preview: NL starters and surprise picks

ESPN MLB •
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ESPN’s early All‑Star ballot drops a mix of breakout stars and seasoned veterans as the July roster approaches. The league has shifted from rewarding long‑term fame to voting for the “best first two months,” a trend that ushered in Jacob Wilson at shortstop last season and now puts Elly De La Cruz on the NL starter list despite IL stint and a veteran for fans.

The National League starters feature a blend of power and speed: Shohei Ohtani fills the DH slot, while James Wood and Corbin Carroll anchor the outfield. At second base, Brice Turang earns the nod thanks to a meteoric OPS rise, and Max Muncy remains the sole third‑base candidate with All‑Star‑level production. Both Wood and Carroll have posted OPS above .950, their status as outfielders this season.

Pitching depth defines the NL selection, with Jacob Misiorowski earning the opening starter role after posting sub‑two‑run ERAs and triple‑digit fastball velocity. Relievers Dylan Lee and Jhoan Duran complement a rotation that also showcases Kyle Harrison’s 1.57 ERA run. His 12‑strikeout performance last week highlights why skeptics who questioned his selection now view him as a frontline ace. The roster reflects a season‑long shift toward recent performance over legacy.