All-star selection means everything to Jays Osuna
Getting the opportunity to be a teammate of stars such as Craig Kimbrel and Andrew Miller, even for just a day, means everything to Toronto Blue Jays closer Roberto Osuna.
The 22-year-old was among seven replacement players selected on Friday for next week’s all-star game in Miami.
“Being able to be in that game with those guys - Kimbrel, Miller - they’re superstars,” Osuna said. “For me, it’s a dream that come true.
“Only thing I’ve got on my mind is go out there, enjoy it and have some fun.”
Osuna, in his third campaign with Toronto, has 22 saves this season with a 2.06 earned-run average in 37 games. The Mexico native struggled to start the season with three blown saves in four opportunities, but has racked up 21 consecutive saves since. His latest came on Thursday night in the Jays’ 7-4 win over the Houston Astros at Rogers Centre. His run of consecutive converted opportunities ties him with Billy Koch for the fourth longest save streak in franchise history.
“He deserved to go anyway,” Toronto manager John Gibbons said before Friday night’s game against the Astros. “There’s a lot of good ones out there but it’s good to get some recognition.
“I’ve always had a feeling anyway before his career is set and done here that he’ll be there many a times. But it’s a great honour to be such a young kid, accomplish what he’s accomplished here at such a young age, it’s got to be rewarding.”
Osuna will join starting first baseman Justin Smoak on the American League squad Tuesday night. It will be the first allstar appearance for both players.