D-Backs All-Star Candidates: Carroll, Arenado, and E-Rod Shine in 2023

As June rolls in, the excitement around the All-Star Game begins to build, with the fan voting officially opening for the first phase this month. Fans can cast their votes up to five times a day, a tradition that many, including my mom, eagerly embrace during this time of year. The National League is packed with talent, yet there’s a spotlight on the Arizona Diamondbacks, who have a mix of perennial All-Stars, emerging stars, and players looking to bounce back. This blend reflects the success the team has enjoyed through the early part of the season.

Leading the charge is Corbin Carroll, who has elevated his game to the MVP-caliber level after making history as a member of the 30-30 club last year. So far this season, he is already showcasing his speed and power, leading the majors with eight triples while nearing double digits in both home runs and stolen bases. Carroll’s defensive prowess in right field adds to his appeal, making him a standout in the National League outfield. With a bWAR of 2.7, an OPS of .937, and an OPS+ of 160, he’s making a compelling case for his third All-Star selection at just 25 years old.

On the other end of the experience spectrum is Nolan Arenado, a seasoned player who is having a resurgent season that significantly contributes to the team’s improvement. With about 40% of the season completed, Arenado is enjoying his best performance in nearly three years. He has accumulated 1.6 bWAR in just over half the games compared to last year, matching his doubles total and nearing two-thirds of his RBIs from the previous season. His ability to excel offensively while also serving as a leader and making stellar defensive plays has made him a key asset. Among National League third basemen, he ranks third in bWAR, second in OPS (.795), and third in home runs, positioning him for his first All-Star selection since 2023.

Lastly, there’s Eduardo Rodriguez, who might not have been considered an All-Star hopeful earlier this year. After struggling with an ERA above five and a WHIP over 1.5 in recent seasons, his performance has dramatically improved since his championship run with Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic. Rodriguez now boasts a 2.24 ERA over 12 starts and a WHIP under 1.2, earning him a bWAR of 2.6, the sixth-highest in the NL. While there are signs of potential regression, his turnaround story could resonate with voters. For the 33-year-old, an All-Star selection would be a sweet reward for overcoming recent challenges.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.