The MLB All-Star Game in San Diego will now feature a pair of Padres. Left-handed pitcher Drew Pomeranz was added to the National League roster on Saturday, joining 1st baseman Wil Myers in the Midsummer Classic at Petco Park.
This is the first All-Star selection for Pomeranz, who is in his first season with the Padres. The lefty is 8-7 with a 2.47 ERA and 115 strikeouts. Pomeranz was acquired in an off-season trade with the A's that sent 1st baseman Yonder Alonso to Oakland (the same move that cleared the way for Myers to take over 1st base full-time).
It was assumed he would resume his role as a relief pitcher but Drew won a spot in the rotation in Spring Training and has been easily the best starter on the club.
Pomeranz replaces Mets RHP Noah Syndergaard, who was removed from his last start due do a shoulder issue.
Two other moves were made to the NL team. Pirates outfielder Starling Marte and Reds outfielder Jay Bruce will replace Mets outfielder Yoenis Céspedes and Cubs outfielder Dexter Fowler, who are both nursing injuries. Cespedes and Fowler were both in the starting lineup and will be replaced in the starting nine by Marlins OF Marcell Ozuna and Rockies OF Carlos Gonzalez, the highest ranked NL outfielders on the Player Ballot.
