Philadelphia Phillies: Schwarber named 2022 All-Star, Wheeler, Nola snubbed

The Philadelphia Phillies will have at least one player representing them for the 2022 MLB All-Star game in Los Angeles, California, as Kyle Schwarber has been named as a reserve. Schwarber is coming off of an incredible month of June that saw a slash line of .272/.385/.680 to the tune of 12 home runs, 27 RBIs, and 27 runs. This is Schwarber’s second All-Star game appearance consecutively and in totality.

Schwarber was not the only Phillie voted in as an All-Star, but unfortunately, he’s set to be the only one representing the team on July 19th. Reigning MVP Bryce Harper was voted in as the National League’s starter at the Designated-Hitter position. Harper will, unfortunately, be unable to play in the Midsummer Classic as he is still recovering from a fractured thumb.

While Harper’s absence will be sorely missed, Schwarber’s accomplishment is one that should be recognized. It is well deserved on the part of the 29-year-old slugger, who is on track to finish one home run behind Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt for the most home runs in Phillies history before the All-Star break. Schwarber is on pace for 30, the record by Schmidt is just 31. Certainly, an added bit of fun to track before the break.

While the Philadelphia Phillies will have Kyle Schwarber to represent them, two deserving members of the roster have been snubbed from the festivities.

Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola have both put forth impressive seasons, and yet both were snubbed for All-Star appearances. On the season, Zack Wheeler boasts a record of 8-4 with an ERA of 2.46, a WHIP of 1.053, and 104 strikeouts. Nola, meanwhile, has a disappointing record of 5-6, yes, but a solid 3.15 ERA, a WHIP of 0.925, and 120 strikeouts (third in the NL). Despite these impressive numbers, both Phillies will be at home for the big game.

There are many deserving pitchers in the National League this season, but the decision to forego either Philadelphia pitcher for Luis Castillo can fairly be questioned. The Cincinnati Reds pitcher has admittedly had yet another impressive season, but with a record of 2-3, 74 strikeouts, and a 2.92 ERA, it’s fair to question his inclusion over Wheeler, at least.

Perhaps Wheeler or Nola could find their way onto the roster but only by a way no one ever wants to make it due to injury. The snubbing of the two Phillies pitchers is frustrating, as is Harper’s absence, but the focus should be on the recognition Kyle Schwarber has received. His first of hopefully many All-Star appearances with the Philadelphia Phillies.