Webb Opts Out of All-Star Game Pitching Duties
SAN FRANCISCO — It seems unlikely that Logan Webb will pitch in a less-than-ideal state this week, especially after he celebrated his initial All-Star appearance perhaps a bit too enthusiastically.
This decision isn’t simply because he’s skipping out on the pregame festivities. After discussions with manager Tony Vitello and the Giants’ coaching staff, they concluded it would be best for Webb to sit out Tuesday’s Midsummer Classic.
Having made his final start of the first half on Wednesday, Webb will be well-rested. But if the need arises, only National League manager Dave Roberts will be left with limited options.
Webb noted, “This wasn’t just a ‘me’ decision. It was kind of a team decision.” He mentioned looking forward to playing but acknowledged, “from my understanding after talking with the team, was not to pitch.”
There are a couple of theories here. Webb has already put in significant work this season, especially with his participation in the World Baseball Classic, and he also faced a month-long stint due to bursitis in his right knee, marking his first injury reserve since 2021.
Manager Tony Vitello commented, “He’s done a lot in general considering the WBC and a few outings with knee pain. I think the biggest thing he did for the fans and for baseball was pitching to that WBC. … I think he spent his time there.”
Webb, alongside Luis Arraez, is representing the Giants, and he plans to take a much-needed break during the holidays for the first time in three years. The past two years, he participated in All-Star games, each with mixed results.
Last year, he had a standout performance, pitching three scoreless innings while the game was tied at 6-6 in Atlanta’s Trust Park. In 2024, however, he struggled, giving up three hits, a walk, and three RBIs in a 5-3 loss for the National League at Globe Life Field in Texas. He later admitted he may have overindulged the night prior.
This time around, there shouldn’t be any obstacles to enjoying the event.
It’s unfortunate fans won’t get to see one of the most dependable starting pitchers—only Zach Wheeler has shown more value since Webb’s debut in 2021—while several deserving pitchers have been overlooked.
Wheeler, with a 9-1 record and 2.28 ERA since returning from thoracic outlet surgery, stands out as a significant omission, especially since the game is being held in his home stadium. Although, there are four other eligible NL starting pitchers boasting lower ERAs than Webb, who was ultimately not selected.
It remains uncertain whether MLB will appoint a replacement since Webb isn’t out indefinitely.
