The 10 Biggest Surprises on the 2025 All-Star Game Rosters
The 2025 MLB All-Star rosters are packed with power, breakout stars, and well-earned comebacks. While some names are familiar, this year’s spotlight tilts toward fresh faces and first-time selections who’ve lit up the season so far. Here’s who’s shaping the game and why they’re hard to ignore.
Paul Skenes
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After starting last year’s All-Star Game as a rookie, Paul Skenes has earned another nod. The Pirates’ right-hander followed up his Rookie of the Year campaign with an impressive sophomore season. He’s one of just four NL pitchers with over 120 strikeouts already.
Ryan O’Hearn
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Not many had Ryan O’Hearn on their All-Star prediction cards, but the Orioles’ designated hitter has turned in a strong first half by batting around .286 with a 139 OPS+. This is his first selection, and his breakout couldn’t have come at a better time.
Hunter Goodman
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The Rockies haven’t had much to celebrate this season, but Hunter Goodman has stood out. In his first All-Star appearance, the 25-year-old catcher brings 16 home runs, 50 RBIs, and a surprising .843 OPS to the mix. His solid production behind the plate has kept things interesting in Colorado.
Shohei Ohtani
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Shohei Ohtani continues his streak of All-Star appearances—his fifth straight. Now representing the Dodgers, he leads the National League in fan votes and slugging percentage. His pitching is limited this year due to injury recovery, but he’s been his usual force at the plate.
Jacob Wilson
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Rookie shortstop Jacob Wilson didn’t take long to settle into the big leagues. He’s hitting .333 with 109 hits through the first half, second in the AL only to Aaron Judge. He’s a strong Rookie of the Year candidate.
Cal Raleigh
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Seattle’s Cal Raleigh led catchers in home runs, and even the entire league. With 36 homers before the break, he’s shattered expectations and earned his first All-Star start. He’s also the first Mariners catcher to start the game.
Kyle Tucker
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Tucker heads into the All-Star break with 52 RBI, 17 home runs, and 21 stolen bases. His pop and agility have made him one of the most complete outfielders in the league. The Cubs outfielder has played a big role in Chicago’s playoff hopes and is getting the national spotlight.
Brandon Lowe
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After a few up-and-down seasons, Brandon Lowe looks comfortable again. He leads all players at his position with 19 home runs. He’s cut down strikeouts and kept his OPS steady around .800. His second All-Star appearance comes during a bounce-back year where he’s helped keep Tampa Bay’s offense afloat.
Pete Crow-Armstrong
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At just 23, Pete Crow-Armstrong has surged to the top of FanGraphs’ WAR rankings in the National League. He’s got over 20 home runs and 20 steals already, so he’s doing just about everything right. His glove in center field doesn’t hurt either.
Clayton Kershaw
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Commissioner Rob Manfred added a sentimental touch to this year’s rosters by selecting Clayton Kershaw as a “Legend Pick.” Now an 11-time All-Star, Kershaw recently crossed the 3,000-strikeout milestone.
Julio Rodríguez
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Julio Rodríguez isn’t having his best offensive season, but his glove hasn’t wavered. His 11 homers and 15 steals are still contributing. He’s now a three-time All-Star at just 24, and his all-around ability keeps him relevant, even when the bat cools.
Jazz Chisholm Jr.
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In his first full year with the Yankees, Jazz Chisholm Jr. hit over a .249 batting average with double-digit home runs and stolen bases. The AL reserves list includes plenty of steady players, and Chisholm brings the flash. His energy should add spark to a lineup full of heavy hitters.
Byron Buxton
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Health has always been a question for Byron Buxton. So far in 2025, he’s stayed on the field, and it’s made a difference. He heads into the break with 15 home runs, 15 steals, and the speed-power combo fans hoped to see more often.
Matthew Boyd
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After 11 seasons bouncing between clubs and injuries, Matthew Boyd makes his first All-Star team. The Cubs’ righty has kept hitters off balance all year with a career-best ERA of 2.52. His inclusion is a rewarding moment for baseball lifers.
James Wood
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James Wood heads into his first All-Star Game already committed to the Home Run Derby, and his regular-season numbers explain why. The Nationals’ rookie has hit 23 home runs with a .940 OPS through fewer than 90 games. At 6-foot-7, he’s hard to miss on the field.