Five non-Paul Skenes storylines to watch at the 2024 MLB All-Star Game

Will Luis Arraez, Jose Ramirez continue hot ASG hitting?

Padres infielder Arraez has quickly warmed up to the All-Star Game, going 3-of-4 at the plate in his first two appearances (2022, 2023). He previously made it to the ASG as a member of the Twins and Marlins, making him one of 10 players all-time to make three consecutive All-Star Games while playing for three different teams

Guardians third baseman Ramirez is a veteran of the Midsummer Classic, making his sixth appearance (fourth consecutive) this season. He first appeared in 2017 and is 5-of-9 batting, including three hits in four at-bats the past two years.

Will Bryce Harper, Aaron Judge break out of ASG slumps?

Harper, a two-time MVP, has had rough experiences in the All-Star Game. In seven previous games, Harper has two hits in 11 at-bats with two walks and five strikeouts.

His .182 average is slightly better than Judge's (.111). Other than a home run at the 2018 All-Star Game, the 2022 AL MVP is 0-of-8 at the event. He missed last year's game due to a toe injury.

How do first-time All-Stars fare on the big stage?

The 2024 All-Star Game features several fresh faces. Between the two rosters, 37 players are first-time All-Stars this season.

In the American League, Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson and Royals shortsthop Bobby Witt Jr. are the most notable first-timers at the plate. Starting pitchers Tarik Skubal (Tigers), Tanner Houck (Red Sox) and Seth Lugo (Royals) are among the top pitchers making their inaugural apperance.

The National League is also loaded on the mound with first-time All-Stars, including Skenes, Cubs starter Shota Imanaga, Braves starter Reynaldo Lopez and Giants starter Logan Webb.

Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm, the No. 3 overall pick of the 2018 MLB Draft, was named an All-Star for the first time after leading the league in doubles (33) during the season's first half, while Padres outfielder Jurickson Profar, who made his MLB debut in September 2012, finally broke through with an All-Star nod in his 12th season.

Orioles pitcher Corbin Burnes vs. Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani

Per Stathead, Ohtani faced Burnes, the AL's starting pitcher, as a batter for the first and only time last season, on April 29, 2023, while he was a member of the Angels and Burnes was with the Brewers. Ohtani went 1-of-3, recording a single as his only hit on three ground balls, including one double-play.