Despite missing some games due to an injury, Yadier Molina’s strong first half has earned him his 9th All-Star selection.
Molina has been selected to replace Buster Posey, the San Francisco Giants catcher, on the National League roster for the All-Star Game. Posey will be absent from the game due to a right hip injury requiring an injection to reduce inflammation. The recurring hip pain has been affecting his performance both at bat and behind the plate throughout the season, prompting Posey to take a break for recovery.
Following the Giants’ 2-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs in 11 innings, Posey expressed his appreciation for the All-Star selection. He stated, “It is an honor to be chosen for the All-Star Game. It’s a decision I made after careful consideration with the training and medical staff, thinking about what’s best for me and the team.”
Manager Bruce Bochy announced Molina’s inclusion on Monday, ahead of the series against the Cubs.
Bochy had been in discussions about the possibility of Posey sitting out the All-Star game to focus on healing from his injury. Acknowledging that Posey would need additional time for recovery even after the break, Bochy confirmed his absence from the upcoming game.
At 31 years old, Posey had been batting .285 with five home runs and 27 RBIs in seven games before taking time off. Bochy noted that Posey’s hip problem had impacted his performance, particularly after experiencing hip soreness at Wrigley Field in May.
