Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler declined Major League Baseball's invitation to join the National League All-Star roster as an injury replacement, explaining Saturday that he felt overlooked during the original selection process.
The 36-year-old right-hander said the league contacted him Friday night about replacing an unavailable pitcher. Rather than accept a late addition to the roster, Wheeler chose to pass, saying, "I'm not gonna be disrespected."
Wheeler has pitched like one of the National League's top starters this season, posting a 9-1 record with a 2.28 ERA, 98 strikeouts and a 0.91 WHIP across 87 innings. His first-half performance fueled debate after he was left off the initial All-Star roster despite ranking among the league's most effective pitchers.
Wheeler expanded on his decision by saying he felt like the league's "fifth option" instead of a deserving All-Star from the outset. His comments quickly became a talking point as fans questioned the selection process for replacement players.
The veteran is coming off one of his best starts of the season, striking out 14 Cincinnati Reds hitters over seven innings in Philadelphia's 4-1 victory earlier this week. The outing matched his career high for strikeouts and strengthened his All-Star résumé.
Aaron Doster-Imagn Images
The Phillies entered Saturday with a 52-43 record, tied with the Miami Marlins for second place in the NL East and three games behind the Atlanta Braves. Although Wheeler will not participate in the Midsummer Classic at Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia will still be represented by Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber and Cristopher Sánchez.
Instead of attending the All-Star festivities, Wheeler will use the break to rest before the second half begins. The Phillies will continue relying on their ace as they chase the Braves in the division race and push toward another postseason appearance.
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