Yankees’ left-hander gets third All-Star nod as league sees multiple high-profile withdrawals
July 11, 2025 – The MLB All-Star Game lineup is undergoing a late shuffle, and New York Yankees’ southpaw Carlos Rodon is stepping into the spotlight once again.
Rodon, 32, has been named to the American League All-Star team, replacing fellow Yankees ace Max Fried, who is scheduled to pitch on Saturday. This marks Rodon’s third career All-Star selection—his first with the Yankees, having previously earned honors in 2021 with the White Sox (AL) and 2022 with the Giants (NL).
Rodon’s current season has been solid. He entered Friday night’s game against the Cubs with a 9-6 record, a 3.30 ERA, and 127 strikeouts over 111 2/3 innings. With his Friday start behind him, Rodon will have three days’ rest ahead of the All-Star Game on Tuesday in Atlanta.
More Roster Changes for the AL
Rodon is one of three pitchers added to the AL roster. Also getting the nod are:
- Carlos Estevez, Kansas City Royals RHP (2.03 ERA, 25 saves, 39 appearances) – His second All-Star selection after earning his first in 2023 with the Angels.
- Casey Mize, Detroit Tigers RHP (9-2, 2.63 ERA in 15 starts) – First-time All-Star.
The Royals are also sending a new position player:
- Maikel Garcia, 3B (batting .305 with 8 HR, 40 RBIs, and 18 stolen bases) – First-time All-Star and a rising star at age 25.
These changes come after Jacob deGrom (Rangers), Garrett Crochet (Red Sox), and Brandon Lowe (Rays) withdrew from the game. DeGrom and Crochet both cited pitching schedules as the reason—Saturday starts meant they wouldn’t be available in time. Crochet also shared that his increasing workload over recent seasons made rest a priority.
“From my standpoint, it makes no sense to make that 201st inning [in an exhibition game],” Crochet explained, highlighting his steady climb from zero innings in 2022 to a projected 200 this year.
Julio Rodriguez Out, Arozarena In
Another notable absence will be Seattle Mariners’ outfielder Julio Rodriguez, who opted out to rest and recover for the second half of the season.
“As much as I would love to be out there, I want to take this time to take care of my body,” Rodriguez shared via Instagram. “It’s rough to miss out, but I’ll be cheering on all the guys.”
He will be replaced by Randy Arozarena, who earns his second straight All-Star selection. Arozarena is hitting .247 with 15 home runs, 44 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases.
Yankees Well-Represented
With Rodon’s addition, the Yankees now have three players on the AL All-Star team:
- Aaron Judge – Starting outfielder
- Jazz Chisholm Jr. – Reserve infielder
- Carlos Rodon – Pitcher
And to top it off, the AL team will be managed by Yankees manager Aaron Boone, giving the Bronx Bombers a strong presence at this year’s Midsummer Classic.
As the All-Star Game approaches, fans can expect a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting newcomers, with each hoping to make their mark under the bright lights of Atlanta.
