Fansided

These 5 guys should absolutely be first time All-Stars

By Joshua Sadlock

DENVER, CO - APRIL 08: Nick Markakis #22 of the Atlanta Braves circles the bases after hitting a solo home run in the sixth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 8, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - APRIL 08: Nick Markakis #22 of the Atlanta Braves circles the bases after hitting a solo home run in the sixth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 8, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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Pitching
SEATTLE, WA – MAY 25: James Paxton #65 of the Seattle Mariners pitches during the first inning against the Minnesota Twins during their game at Safeco Field on May 25, 2018 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

2. James Paxton, Seattle Mariners

No one ever doubted that Seattle Mariners left-hander James Paxton possessed the potential to make an All-Star team — multiple All-Star teams — in his MLB career. Staying healthy always proved the most difficult obstacle for the big hurler. Paxton went 3-0 with a 1.50 ERA in four starts as a rookie in 2013 but has still not topped 30 starts in a season due to injuries.

Finally healthy, The Big Maple is putting it all together this season and leading the Mariners back to the Promised Land. He has thrown a no-hitter and is 6-1 with a 3.02 ERA while striking out 11.2 per nine. It has been a continuation from last year, where he went 12-5 with a 2.98 ERA and 10.3 strikeouts per nine in 24 starts.

The Mariners have been one of the biggest surprises in the league this year, and much of their rise has been made possible by finally having a healthy ace. Paxton is one of the best stories of the year, and he will be rewarded with an All-Star nod.

It’s very possible that Paxton isn’t the only first-time All-Star on the Mariners roster. Right fielder Mitch Haniger and closer Edwin Diaz should get some love. Haniger is on track for over 30 homers and 100 RBI, while Diaz leads the major leagues with 25 saves and is striking out 14.5 per nine. It’s finally good to be a Mariners fan.

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