Building a 2026 All-Star Ballot out of sleeper picks
The 2026 All-Star Game is just around the corner, and while some selections are a no-brainer, there are several sleeper picks who have quietly made a case for themselves. From catchers to outfielders, these players have defied expectations and are deserving of a spot in the Midsummer Classic. Let's take a closer look at some of the most surprising candidates and explore what makes them so fascinating.
Liam Hicks, C, Marlins
Hicks might be the most surprising candidate on this list, and for good reason. With an .844 OPS and 13 home runs in 67 games, he's having a career year. Sure, he's had to fill in as the Marlins' primary catcher with their top prospect on the DL, but he's more than risen to the occasion. What makes Hicks so intriguing is his ability to rake despite not being a traditional catcher. His former Rule 5 status only adds to the intrigue, as he's gone from a little-known prospect to a potential All-Star in just one season. Personally, I think his performance this year is a testament to his raw talent and work ethic, and I wouldn't be surprised if he continues to surprise us in the coming years.
Jake Bauers, 1B, Brewers
Bauers has been a journeyman in the majors, but something clicked in his second year with the Brewers. With a .905 OPS and 13 home runs, he's tied for 16th best among qualified hitters. What makes Bauers so fascinating is his ability to handle right-handed pitching, which has been a consistent struggle for him in the past. His .752 OPS and 110 OPS+ last season were a welcome development, and this year's production is even more impressive. It's as if he's finally found his stride, and it's a sight to behold. In my opinion, Bauers is a prime example of how a change of scenery can do wonders for a player, and I wouldn't be surprised if he continues to thrive in Milwaukee.
Ezequiel Duran, 2B, Rangers
Duran had a strong sophomore season with the Rangers during their World Series run, but he struggled in the following seasons. However, this year, he's posted a .787 OPS that's 30 percent better than league average. What makes Duran so interesting is his ability to step up in big moments. His performance this year has been a welcome development for a Rangers offense that entered Saturday tied for the third fewest runs of any offense. If you take a step back and think about it, Duran's resurgence is a testament to his resilience and determination, and it's a refreshing sight to see a player bounce back from a rough patch.
Curtis Mead, 3B, Nationals
Mead might be best known for being the player traded straight up for Sánchez in the November 2019 Phillies-Rays trade, but this season, he's making a strong case for himself. With an .820 OPS and 10 home runs in 54 games, he's one of the poster boys for the much-improved Nationals offense. What makes Mead so fascinating is his ability to stay consistent despite the changes in the front office and coaching staff. His performance this year is a testament to his talent and work ethic, and it's a refreshing sight to see a player thrive in a new environment.
Otto Lopez, SS, Marlins
Lopez has teamed up with Marlins second baseman Xavier Edwards as one of baseball's top middle infield duos. The 27-year-old has truly broken out as one of the biggest surprises in baseball, leading the Majors in both average (.342) and hits (94). What makes Lopez so interesting is his ability to combine speed and power. With surprising pop (.484 SLG), strong shortstop defense, and basestealing abilities, he's accumulated 3.0 WAR, tied for fifth best among all position players. From my perspective, Lopez is a prime example of how a player can defy expectations and become a star, and I wouldn't be surprised if he continues to shine in the coming years.
JJ Bleday, OF, Reds
Bleday was a highly touted prospect, but after a 2024 breakout, he struggled last season and was non-tendered by the A's. However, the Reds signed him to a one-year deal, and it's been a perfect match. With a .929 OPS and 11 home runs, he's providing the Reds with much-needed offensive thump. What makes Bleday so fascinating is his ability to bounce back from a rough patch. His performance this year is a testament to his resilience and determination, and it's a refreshing sight to see a player thrive after being written off.
Carlos Cortes, OF, A's
Cortes has essentially replaced Bleday in the A's outfield and produced similar value at the plate. After a strong 42-game debut with the A's last year (.866 OPS), he's proven that he might be a legitimately good everyday outfielder. What makes Cortes so interesting is his ability to step up in big moments. Among hitters with at least 150 plate appearances, he ranks in the top 10 with a .308 average and .393 OBP. If you take a step back and think about it, Cortes' performance this year is a testament to his talent and work ethic, and it's a refreshing sight to see a player thrive in a new environment.
Luke Raley, OF, Mariners
Raley has maximized his extreme profile of absolutely mashing right-handed pitching while whiffing on a whopping 41.7 percent of his swings (1st percentile of all hitters). With a .516 SLG and 14 home runs, he's slugging at a 96th percentile barrel rate. What makes Raley so fascinating is his ability to maximize his strengths while minimizing his weaknesses. His performance this year is a testament to his strategic approach to the game, and it's a refreshing sight to see a player thrive despite his unique profile.
Casey Schmitt, DH, Giants
Schmitt has taken a huge step forward as a consistent presence in the middle of San Francisco's lineup. With 15 home runs in 62 games, he's already surpassed his 12 homers in 95 games last season. What makes Schmitt so interesting is his ability to adapt to different situations. His aggressive approach at the plate is a refreshing change of pace, and his performance this year is a testament to his versatility and determination. In my opinion, Schmitt is a prime example of how a player can defy expectations and become a star, and I wouldn't be surprised if he continues to shine in the coming years.
A Broader Perspective
These sleeper picks are a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of the 2026 All-Star Game. From catchers to outfielders, these players have defied expectations and are deserving of a spot in the Midsummer Classic. What makes them so fascinating is their ability to step up in big moments and provide their teams with a boost when it matters most. As we approach the All-Star break, let's take a moment to appreciate the talent and determination of these players, and let's hope they continue to surprise us in the coming years.
