Since the initial All-Star rosters were announced last week, the Dodgers have been lobbying to ensure Justin Wrobleski’s inclusion.
On Saturday, relief arrived for the young left-hander.
Three days prior to the game, he discovered he had been selected as an All-Star after all.
His omission from the Midsummer Classic had been a source of frustration for both him and the Dodgers.
The 25-year-old left-hander expressed disappointment earlier this week, noting he could only hope to “gain the respect of peers and others and perhaps be selected again next year.” Manager Dave Roberts defended the selection, stating he believes Wrobleski has earned the opportunity.
Consequently, those complaints can now be laid to rest.
With Wrobleski’s selection, the Dodgers now boast six All-Star players this season, matching the host Phillies for the league lead.
Not all members of the Dodgers’ contingent will be able to participate; Shohei Ohtani will sit out to receive treatment for a lingering knee issue, with a decision on Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s involvement pending his final first-half start on Saturday.
Wrobleski, however, should be fully rested and ready to pitch, having last thrown on Tuesday.
Should he take the field, it would mark the fulfillment of a dream that few anticipated earlier in the season, as the former Triple-A swingman reliever has risen to become an All-Star starter.