What happened: MLB is spotlighting Phase 2 of American League All-Star voting, with the ballot set to close Thursday at 12 p.m. ET. The final round determines which AL players earn starting spots for the 2026 Midsummer Classic in Philadelphia. Fans can continue casting votes for their favorites until the deadline.

Why it matters: Phase 2 is the decisive round, narrowing the field to the players who will start the All-Star Game. The push comes as several clubs lean on their fan bases to drive late ballots, with close races at multiple positions still up for grabs.

What to watch: Voting closes Thursday at noon ET, after which the AL starting lineup will be revealed. Watch for which contested spots flip in the final 48 hours of balloting.