Manfred Defends Misiorowski’s All-Star Selection: “Excitement and Competition”

Rob Manfred Defends Jacob Misiorowski’s Selection for the All-Star Game

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred on Tuesday defended his decision to include Milwaukee Brewers rookie right-handed pitcher Jacob Misiorowski in the All-Star Game, despite receiving criticism. Misiorowski has participated in only five games, a low record for an All-Star, which generated a debate between those who say the game is for the most deserving players and those who believe it is for the fans.

I made the decision based on the emotion it was going to generate, the fans’ interest in seeing this guy and adding a competitive pitcher to the game.

Rob Manfred

Manfred stated that he made the decision considering “the excitement that was going to be generated, the fans’ interest in seeing this guy” and adding a competitive pitcher to the game. “He’s a very, very good pitcher at a very good time,” Manfred told the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. “I understand that five starts is short? Yes, I understand that. And do I want that to be the norm? No, I don’t. But I think it was the right decision given the situation.” The 23-year-old, Misiorowski, caused a sensation throughout the league when he threw a 100.5 mph fastball in his first pitch in the Major Leagues. In addition, he opened his debut on June 12 against St. Louis throwing five hitless innings before leaving due to cramps in the Brewers’ 6-0 victory. The 6-foot-7-inch rookie is 4-1 with a 2.81 ERA and has struck out 33 batters, allowing only 12 hits in 25⅔ innings. It’s an impressive debut, but some players still believe the right-hander hasn’t been in the game long enough to merit All-Star consideration over more established players. The Los Angeles Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, who is the helmsman of the National League All-Stars, commented on Monday night: “If that generates excitement and attention to our game, then I’m in favor.” Misiorowski said he wasn’t offended by the criticism, particularly from Trea Turner of the Philadelphia Phillies. Misiorowski added that he was as surprised as anyone to find himself in Atlanta for Tuesday night’s game. “The last five weeks have been crazy. I thought the All-Star break would be an opportunity to sit down and reflect. Now we are here.”