What happened: Major League Baseball has launched Phase 2 of National League All-Star voting, the final round that determines the senior circuit's starting lineup for the 2026 Midsummer Classic. Fan balloting runs through noon ET on Thursday, with the leaders at each position carrying into the close. The winners earn starting nods chosen entirely by the fan vote.

Why it matters: Phase 2 is the decisive round, narrowing each position to the front-runners before fans lock in the NL's starters. Reaction around the league points to the Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves featuring prominently among the National League's contenders, reflecting their depth of recognizable bats. Starting selections also shape roster narratives and momentum heading into the second half.

What to watch: Final National League starters will be set when voting closes at noon ET on Thursday, with results revealing which players claimed each spot.