Osuna added to all-star roster
There has been a change of plans for Roberto Osuna.
The Blue Jays 22-year-old closer was all set to head home for a week of rest and relaxation starting on Sunday, initially shut out of Major League Baseball’s all-star game. That all changed on Friday, when Osuna became one of seven players named to next week’s game as a replacement for those unable to participate either through injury or lack of availability.
Osuna, fellow relievers Chris Devenski of Houston and Brandon Kintzler of Minnesota, Tampa Bay starter Chris Archer, Seattle second baseman Robinson Cano and Detroit outfielder Justin Upton were named to the American League team to fill in for Angels outfielder Mike Trout, Yankees second baseman Starlin Castro and Astros starter Dallas Keuchel, all injured, plus three pitchers scheduled to pitch Sunday, Texas’s Yu Darvish, the Tigers’ Michael Fulmer and Cleveland’s Corey Kluber.
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Alex Wood will replace teammate Clayton Kershaw for the National League. Kershaw is also scheduled to start on Sunday.
Despite notching his 21st consecutive save on Thursday, in a season that saw his all-time save record surpass 75, the youngest player ever to reach that mark.
Osuna has excelled on the mound this season despite admittedly struggling with anxiety off the field. He recorded his 21st consecutive save Thursday and, at 22 years and 154 days, he is the youngest player to reach the all-star game in Blue Jays history.
“I dreamed about it when I was younger. Having the pleasure to be in the all-star game now means everything,” he said, beaming.
It was a mutual feeling for those around him in Toronto’s clubhouse. There was an early afternoon congratulatory text message from catcher Russell Martin — particularly poignant for Osuna after the youngster turned to the 34-year-old veteran for advice during some early-season struggles — and hugs from fellow relievers like Danny Barnes.
As far as manager John Gibbons is concerned, Osuna, with his 2.06 ERA and a mere three blown saves heading into Friday, deserved to be on the roster in the first place. He was happy to see his closer get such recognition, if belatedly.
“I think it’ll be a good opportunity for him, let the world look at him,” Gibbons said. “I anticipate he’ll have a few of those appearances before it’s all said and done anyways, but he’s got to be thrilled.”
Osuna’s not dwelling on the initial oversight. “This is my time. I can’t complain for anything else, I’ve just got to enjoy it.”
Osuna will join Jays first baseman Justin Smoak at next week’s festivities. Osuna said he is “really proud” of how far Smoak has come over the past two and a half years.
“He’s an unbelievable player, he’s doing an unbelievable job for us this year. He deserves it more than anybody.”