The Los Angeles Dodgers added more representatives to the 2022 MLB All-Star Game when National League reserves and pitchers were announced, which included Clayton Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin. Kershaw was selected by MLB, while Gonsolin was voted in by players.
Although the All-Star Game rosters were not made public until an after announcement show on ESPN, players had prior notice. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called Gonsolin and Kershaw into his office prior to Sunday’s series finale against the Chicago Cubs to inform them of the honor.
Kershaw is headed to a ninth career All-Star Game, and it’s a first selection for Gonsolin. Both conceivably are under consideration to start the 92nd Midsummer Classic.
There has been recent support to have Kershaw start his first career All-Star Game, particularly with the event being at Dodger Stadium. He certainly would welcome the opportunity, but so long as Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker makes a starter decision on merit.
The moment Clayton and Tony found out they were All-Stars. pic.twitter.com/wLUWaMW0EO
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 10, 2022
“I’ve said it’s a huge honor and it would be very special. But I don’t want it to be one of those things where I’m taking a spot or taking something from somebody that’s more deserving than me,” Kershaw said Saturday night.
“Thankfully, I don’t have to make that call. I would love to do it, but at the same time, I get it. There’s a lot of guys pitching really well, so I understand either way.”
Gonsolin is the first Dodgers starter to begin a season 11-0 since Alex Wood did so in 2017, which was an All-Star campaign for the southpaw. Gonsolin leads the Majors with a 1.62 ERA.
Dave Roberts expected more Dodgers All-Stars
Prior to initial All-Star Game rosters being announced, Roberts said he believed the Dodgers deserved to have seven players selected to the NL team.
With Mookie Betts and Trea Turner already locked in as starters, it was presumed Roberts anticipated Kershaw, Gonsolin, Julio Urías, Freddie Freeman and Will Smith would join them.
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