Red Sox Slugger Makes Exciting All-Star Weekend Announcement

The right-handed slugger has thrived in his new home, mashing 20 home runs so far in his first season with the Red Sox, just four away from his career high in 2019. His big swing has been a perfect fit at Fenway Park, as the 34-year-old leads the team in home runs, batting average (.287), RBI (61), OBP (.381) and OPS (.926).

Contreras was originally snubbed from the All-Star team, only being selected after Blue Jays' first basemanVladimir Guerrero Jr. dropped out. The 11-year veteran was grateful for the opportunity, telling media members on Tuesday that he is "always thankful to be recognized" and "more than happy to assist [in] the All-Star Game."

It is the fourth selection of Contreras's long career, but his first since 2022. That same year, he shared the field with his younger brother William for the National League side, something he will get to do again this year as the Brewers catcher was honored for the third time in his seven-year career.

Joining the Home Run Derby field, Contreras will look to become the second Red Sox player in franchise history to win the event alongside David Ortiz, who took home the title in Anaheim in 2010. Regardless, his participation will break a 15-year streak for the club that goes back to Adrian Gonzalez in 2011.

For back-to-back days, it's been great news coming the way of Contreras, who has remained Boston's best hitter as he awaits the decision from MLB regarding his appeal of the seven-game suspension levied against him last week. He will be available again tonight in Chicago and is likely to begin his ban later this week with the potential to extend beyond All-Star weekend.