Expert Predicts Only 2 Padres Will Make 2023 All-Star Game

With a team full of All-Stars, MLB expert has only two Frairs making it to the mid-summer classic

The MLB All-Star voting opened earlier this week, allowing fans to choose their favorite players to participate in the highly anticipated mid-summer classic. This year, the All-Star game will be held in Seattle, adding to the event's excitement.

The San Diego Padres boast one of the most talented teams in the league, packed with potential All-Stars. However, their performance so far this season has not lived up to expectations. Despite having a roster filled with star players, the team has struggled to showcase their true potential in the first two months of the season. 

MLB expert Joel Reuter for Bleacher Report recently unveiled his updated 2023 All-Star rosters as of June. Surprisingly, according to Reuter, only two Padres players made the cut and will make their way to the Pacific Northwest.

SD (2): OF Juan Soto, RP Josh Hader

Starting Lineup 1. RF Ronald Acuña Jr., ATL
2. LF Juan Soto, SD
3. CF Mookie Betts, LAD
4. 1B Freddie Freeman, LAD
5. 3B Max Muncy, LAD
6. C Sean Murphy, ATL
7. DH Nolan Gorman, STL
8. SS Dansby Swanson, CHC
9. 2B Luis Arraez, MIA
SP Spencer Strider, ATL

Reserves (Pitchers)SP Bryce Elder, ATL
SP Zac Gallen, ARI
SP Mitch Keller, PIT
SP Merrill Kelly, ARI
SP Justin Steele, CHC
SP Marcus Stroman, CHC
SP Logan Webb, SF
RP Alexis Díaz, CIN
RP Camilo Doval, SF
RP Josh Hader, SD
RP Devin Williams, MIL

Reuter has Soto batting second in the lineup and playing left field in a star-studded NL lineup, while Hader makes it in with no debate. Juan Soto and Josh Hader have undeniably been the standout performers on the team.

Hader, a left-handed flamethrower, currently ranks third in saves with 13. He boasts a stellar 1.61 ERA and a save percentage of 81.3%. Hader has been one of the few bright spots in a lackluster season for the Padres, consistently delivering strong performances.

Juan Soto initially struggled in the 2023 season but has recently regained his form. Over his last 30 games, Soto has displayed his power and consistency, recording a .626 slugging percentage, batting .333, and 33 hits in 99 ABs. The lefty slugger has seemed to get out of his trance and is playing like the superstar slugger San Diego traded for. 

The Padres hope that more of their players can step up in the month of June to secure their spots in the game. However, the team's primary focus remains on stacking up wins and turning their season around. Soto and Hader will let their game speak for themselves as they aim to earn their third and fifth All-Star appearances, respectively.