By John Chidley-Hill, The Canadian Press
Posted July 2, 2023, 6:03 pm
Updated July 2, 2023, 6:11 pm
TORONTO – Bo Bichette expresses his gratitude for his selection to the all-star game. As the current hits leader in the American League, Bichette is one of four Toronto Blue Jays players chosen to participate in Major League Baseball’s midseason exhibition. Joining him at the all-star game are slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr., ace Kevin Gausman, and second baseman Whit Merrifield.
Having been an all-star in 2021, Bichette now recognizes and appreciates the honor even more as he has matured. Prior to officially becoming an all-star, Bichette stated, “To be honest, I think I took it for granted in my first year. So, if I have the opportunity again, I will definitely be happy to accept it.”
Bichette currently leads the AL with 113 hits this season, boasting a .317 batting average, 15 home runs, and 51 runs batted in. This will mark Guerrero’s third consecutive all-star game appearance, having been named the exhibition’s most valuable player in 2021. Guerrero’s impressive stats for this season include a .274 batting average, 12 home runs, and 52 RBIs.
In an exciting announcement, Guerrero declared that he would be participating in the home run derby, with Blue Jays manager John Schneider serving as his pitcher. Previously, they combined for a record-setting 91 home runs in the 2021 home run derby. Gausman, with a 7-4 record, flaunts a 3.04 earned-run average and an impressive 146 strikeouts, leading the AL in this category.
Merrifield, who has been traded to Toronto from the Kansas City Royals, shares his excitement about his third all-star appearance. With a batting average of .282, two home runs, and 30 RBIs, split between second base and the outfield, Merrifield attributes his fresh start with the Blue Jays to his successful selection. He states, “I had a decent first half, so it’s rewarding to be recognized for that. Especially after a tough start last year. I missed out last year, so it’s great to have a better start this time.”
Fans can look forward to the home run derby on July 10 and the all-star game, scheduled to take place the following day at T-Mobile Park in Seattle.
Published by The Canadian Press on July 2, 2023.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
