What happened: Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras and pitcher Sonny Gray were omitted from the initial American League All-Star roster. Both remain candidates for replacement spots before the July 14 game.
Why it matters: The omissions leave two prominent Boston performers without initial selection. The Red Sox enter their scheduled game at 38-48 while leading the series 2-0.
By the numbers: Contreras ranks ninth in MLB with a .912 OPS and 10th with a 150 wRC+. Boston is 38-48 and has scored and allowed 4.0 runs per game.
What to watch: Roster withdrawals or availability changes could create openings for Contreras or Gray.