Justin Wrobleski turned heads with his All-Star debut on his birthday, a busy night for the Los Angeles Dodgers despite the National League's loss.
Justin Wrobleski entered the 2026 MLB All-Star Game as a late addition to the National League roster, but he left Citizens Bank Park as one of the night's biggest stories.
Added to the team after Chase Burns was unable to participate because of injury, the Los Angeles Dodgers' left-hander delivered a dominant performance in his first career All-Star appearance.
Wrobleski took the mound in the seventh inning and overwhelmed the American League lineup, striking out Travis Bazzana, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Yandy Díaz in order.
Known more for his ability to generate weak contact than pile up strikeouts, Wrobleski showcased another side of his game by fanning all three hitters he faced in a perfect inning.
The Dodgers' left-hander returned for the eighth and surrendered a solo home run to Chicago White Sox third baseman and former Dodger Miguel Vargas, accounting for the game's final run. Even so, his overall performance stood out as one of the brightest moments for the National League during its 4-0 defeat.
The outing carried added significance as Wrobleski celebrated his birthday, becoming just the ninth player in major-league history to appear in an All-Star Game on the day he turned a year older.
Freeman, Muncy and Pages represent Los Angeles
Freddie Freeman made his 10th career All-Star appearance and sixth as the National League's starting first baseman.
The veteran reached base with a first-inning walk and also flashed his defensive ability by making a difficult scoop on an errant throw to record an out at first base. He remained in the game through four innings before exiting.
Max Muncy earned his third career All-Star selection and his first start in the Midsummer Classic. The Dodgers' third baseman played four innings and was retired on a pair of infield popups during his two trips to the plate.
Andy Pages, rewarded for his breakout campaign with his first All-Star start, struck out in his opening at-bat before nearly collecting a hit later in the game.
A sharp ground ball up the middle was turned into an outstanding defensive play by American League second baseman Ernie Clement, who made a backhand stop and strong throw to first to rob the Dodgers outfielder.
Ohtani, Yamamoto enjoy festivities
Shohei Ohtani was voted to his sixth consecutive All-Star Game after leading all players in Phase 1 of fan voting, but irritation in his left knee kept him out of the lineup and All-Star festivities. The Dodgers expect Ohtani to return when they open the second half against the New York Yankees.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto was selected to his second straight All-Star team but did not pitch after making his final first-half start over the weekend. The right-hander still traveled to Philadelphia to take part in the festivities, representing Los Angeles alongside its large contingent of All-Stars.
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