Orioles Shut Out of All-Star Voting, But Several Players Had Strong Cases
Orioles Shut Out of All-Star Voting, But Several Players Had Strong Cases
While no Baltimore Orioles position player advanced to Phase 2 of the 2026 MLB All-Star fan voting, that doesn’t mean the club lacked deserving candidates. Fan voting often rewards market size and popularity as much as on-field performance, and several Orioles had legitimate arguments to be finalists.
Pete Alonso deserved more consideration
First baseman Pete Alonso finished well outside the top two at his position despite serving as one of the Orioles’ most consistent power threats. Alonso has provided veteran leadership, middle-of-the-order production, and has been a major reason Baltimore’s offense has remained competitive for stretches this season. However, he was competing against fan favorites like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and several younger stars, making the climb to Phase 2 extremely difficult.
Samuel Basallo has quickly become a fan favorite
Perhaps the biggest disappointment was Samuel Basallo at designated hitter. The rookie has emerged as one of baseball’s brightest young hitters, delivering impressive power, run production, and clutch hitting while proving he belongs in the middle of Baltimore’s lineup. Despite his breakout season, Basallo finished fifth among AL designated hitters behind established stars, a reflection of both the crowded field and the challenge young players face in fan voting.
Others who received support
Adley Rutschman entered the voting as Baltimore’s biggest name but injuries and inconsistent stretches likely hurt his chances. Gunnar Henderson also remained outside the finalists after battling through an up-and-down first half by his lofty standards.
The All-Star dream isn’t over
The Orioles can still have representatives in Philadelphia. MLB players and the Commissioner’s Office will select the reserve position players and pitching staffs, giving Alonso, Basallo, and potentially other Orioles another opportunity to earn All-Star honors despite missing the fan-voting finals.
