Giants Celebrate All-Star Selections Amid Struggles

DENVER — Just a couple of hours before Saturday’s game, manager Tony Vitello gathered the Giants in their clubhouse at Coors Field. He was eager to share some positive news.

The Giants, who currently sit near the bottom of the National League, will have two players representing them at the upcoming All-Star Game in Philadelphia: Logan Webb and Luis Arraez.

“I didn’t want to mess it up,” admitted the new coach. “This is my first lap.”

Vitello expressed pride in Webb’s selection for the third consecutive season and in Arraez’s return after a one-year break, making this his fourth selection overall.

A few months back, this recognition seemed unlikely. Webb had planned to spend his All-Star break at a wildlife farm. Initially, his season looked rocky as he went on injured reserve after his eighth start with an ERA of 5.06.

However, he turned things around in June, giving up just three earned runs in five starts, which earned him the All-Star nod shortly after his first National League Pitcher of the Month award.

“Honestly, I never expected this to happen,” Webb reflected. “It’s nice to be acknowledged by my teammates and coaches. I’ll take whatever accolades come my way.”

By the time of his selection, Webb had improved his ERA to 3.09, but a challenging outing in a recent 15-3 loss saw it rise back to 3.66. “Since yesterday, I don’t really feel like an All-Star today,” he noted with a hint of disappointment.

Webb becomes part of an elite group of Giants pitchers, including legends like Juan Marichal, Tim Lincecum, and Madison Bumgarner, who have also made three consecutive All-Star appearances.

He’s expected to make one more start before the first half of the season concludes, which could solidify his spot for National League manager Dave Roberts.

Talking about Webb, Arraez mentioned, “I’ve faced him many times, and I know he competes fiercely. He’s one player I’d want on my team.”

Ron Washington, obviously thrilled about Arraez’s return to the All-Star roster, called him “like a grandfather” and shared his excitement. Arraez’s dedication in training transformed him from a struggling defender to one of the league’s best at his position. When he joined the Giants, no other teams were offering him a shot at second base.

“It means a lot to put in hard work,” Arraez added, acknowledging how far he’s come.

Webb echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the talent and determination Arraez brings to the field, saying, “Lewis is probably one of the hardest workers I’ve ever seen. Just being around him is inspiring.”

Previously an All-Star with the Twins in 2022 and the Marlins in 2023, Arraez missed last season but has bounced back strong this year with impressive stats, returning to form with a .326 batting average and solid on-base and slugging percentages.

Vitello remarked, “What he’s achieved in the past shouldn’t be overlooked. His hard work shows he’s not just in the mix for the batting title but is also a contender for the Gold Glove Award.”

Despite their underwhelming record—15 games below .500—the Giants will still have a notable presence at the 96th All-Star Game, which falls on July 14, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding in Philadelphia.

The last time the Giants were limited to a single All-Star was in 2019, despite being in a better position record-wise compared to this year.

This season has mirrored the Giants’ rough start in 2017 when they entered the All-Star break at 34-56, with Buster Posey as their lone representative.

Amidst the struggles, Webb and Arraez stand out as the most deserving players. Casey Schmidt has also made a name for himself this season, playing multiple positions, though it was surprising that the Commissioner’s Office overlooked Jung-Hoo Lee, who has had a breakout year.

Both players are hoping for their first All-Star appearances, although there’s still a chance to be named as substitutes should injuries occur. Webb noted, “It’s clear we’re not playing very well. There are others who probably deserve the All-Star spot more than me.”