Juan Soto is on track to finish the 2025 season with more than 40 home runs, over 30 stolen bases, more than 100 RBIs, over 100 runs scored, and at least 100 walks. Only Barry Bonds (1996, 1997) and Jeff Bagwell (1997, 1999) have reached these marks in a single MLB season.
Despite this performance, Soto was not selected as an All-Star. The article notes that timing and other factors can keep deserving players from receiving midseason recognition. It introduces the “2025 Non-All-Star All-Star Team,” highlighting notable players who were not part of the Midsummer Classic but are having standout seasons.
Catcher William Contreras of the Brewers is recognized for his consistent play despite injury and his defensive contributions. Contreras has posted a .263/.359/.408 line and above-average fielding metrics. Shea Langeliers of the Athletics also receives mention for reaching 30 home runs.
Bryce Harper was initially included on the list but later replaced by Nick Kurtz due to an error regarding All-Star status. Kurtz, a rookie with a .1.013 OPS and 30 home runs, is expected to win AL Rookie of the Year after a notable four-homer game.
At second base, Brice Turang shares FanGraphs WAR leadership among second basemen with Ketel Marte and leads most others in weighted runs created plus. Turang is likely to finish with a 20-20 season and is credited for his role in Milwaukee’s success.
Trea Turner of the Phillies stands out at shortstop with an NL-best .305 average, 179 hits, and improved defensive metrics—going from minus-3 outs above average last year to plus-16 this season—even after missing time due to injury.
Third baseman Matt Chapman remains productive despite hand injuries, posting an .810 OPS with solid power numbers while continuing to be rated highly on defense.
Soto’s strong offensive output for his new team came after early-season struggles drew criticism about his effort. The article references a deeper analysis available on YouTube discussing Soto’s year.
Cody Bellinger has been valuable for the Yankees while playing all three outfield positions effectively. He is close to reaching milestones in home runs, doubles, and RBIs. Other outfielders noted include Ramón Laureano (Orioles/Padres), Trent Grisham (Yankees), Harrison Bader (Phillies), and Isaac Collins (Brewers).
Roman Anthony of Boston matched Guardians All-Star Steven Kwan in fWAR despite playing only 71 games before suffering an oblique strain. Anthony’s arrival impacted Boston’s season even though he joined too late for All-Star consideration.
George Springer rebounded from last year’s downturn with career-highs in adjusted OPS+ and weighted runs created plus for Toronto at age 35.
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sánchez did not make the initial NL All-Star roster but declined a replacement spot offer due to timing issues around his last start before the break. Sánchez may still be recognized as a Cy Young finalist following his season with a 2.57 ERA and nearly one strikeout per inning pitched.
Reliever Jhoan Duran is also featured after posting a sub-2 ERA while saving 29 games without yet making an All-Star team since debuting in 2022.
