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MLB·July 8, 2026 12:21 PM ET

MLB taps Luzardo, Ashcraft, Contreras as All-Star replacements

Four players join the Midsummer Classic roster.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 81 min read
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What happened: Riley O'Brien, Jesus Luzardo, Braxton Ashcraft and Willson Contreras were selected as All-Star replacements. They take the spots of Paul Skenes, Jacob Misiorowski, Max Meyer and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The outgoing pitchers are scheduled to start their clubs' final games before the break, while Guerrero rests an ailing back.

Why it matters: The roster changes grant first-time nods to the three substitute pitchers. It also secures Contreras his fourth selection during a standout debut season with the Boston Red Sox. The swaps allow organizations to maintain their regular rotation schedules without forcing unavailable starters to participate.

By the numbers: Ashcraft is 9-3 with a 3.24 ERA and 122 strikeouts across 108 1/3 innings for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Jesus Luzardo holds a 7-4 record and a 3.75 ERA with 125 punchouts. Contreras is on pace for the most productive offensive season of his 11-year career.

What to watch: The newly named selections will report for the exhibition on July 14. Additional replacements could emerge if other players sustain injuries during the final weekend slate.

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MLBBreakingBoston Red SoxPittsburgh PiratesBraxton AshcraftJacob Misiorowski
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