Jacob deGrom had taken himself to another level, and he knows it. Last Sunday he was selected to his second All-Star game, his first since 2015.
When asked on being selected to the game by Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News, deGrom said that he believes”it is an honor” to be placed on a roster among the elite in the game.
But when asked about starting the game, deGrom expressed a more determined persona.
“I want to start the game. I want it. Getting chosen as the starting pitcher is a step above [making it], so it would be an honor to start it. I’d like that, but I guess, we’ll have to see what happens.”.
DeGrom also noted that despite the fact he really wants to start the game, that he also understands the politics of who starts. In 2013, Matt Harvey was chosen as the All-Star starter for the game in Queens, when many felt that Clayton Kershaw was having the better year. But alas, Harvey was chosen to start in his home stadium, much like many expect to happen to Max Scherzer.
The 30-year old currently holds the Major League lead in ERA, is fifth in WHIP, tenth in K/9, and is tied with Aaron Nola for the lead on all National League players in WAR with a 5.9. In the MLB, he only trails Mike Trout, Jose Rameriez, and Mookie Betts in that category. Max Scherzer ended his first half 12-5 with a 2.41 ERA. Scherzer also has a 12.16 K/9, a 5.53 K/BB ratio, and possesses a 4.9 WAR
The starters for each the National League and American League teams will be announced at All-Star Media Day in Washington DC, tomorrow, July 15.
