Under The Radar Players Who Can Be 2022 MLB All-Stars
Baseball presents so many unexpected surprises each year, and these players are looking to build on some great momentum from the past couple of years to become first-time All-Stars in 2022. A step down from those who are looking to turn their All-Star-level play into an MVP award, don’t sleep on these under-the-radar guys who may represent their teams in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game.
Nicky Lopez, Infield, Kansas City Royals
Lopez broke out in 2021 at the age of 26, while hitting, wait for it, two home runs. Yes, he may have just about zero power, but Lopez does everything else to near perfection. In 2021 he demonstrated his ability to hit for average (.300), his discipline at the plate, his speed, and some of the best defense in baseball. Moving forward, he’s likely to play mostly second base and shortstop for the Royals, but he’ll have to continue to play at a high level to get at bats, with Whit Merrifield, Adalberto Mondesi, and Bobby Witt Jr. on Kansas city as well. Nevertheless, Lopez is a prime candidate to break out in 2022 with the potential for 180 hits, 30 stolen bases, a gold glove, and his first career All-Star appearance.
Ty France, Infield, Seattle Mariners
There are many other Mariners who will receive more attention to start the season, such as Mitch Haniger, Jesse Winker, and Robbie Ray, but don’t forget about France. Expected to play first base to start the season, France can play all over the infield and is an incredible hitter. After struggling as a rookie in 2019, France broke out in 2020, with a .305 batting average and a .836 OPS. This past season, he swatted 18 home runs, with 73 RBI, a .293 batting average, and a.813 OPS. France is simply a very talented hitter who is still young enough that he can refine his skills and become the best version of himself. If this happens, don’t be surprised when he becomes a prime candidate for the 2022 MLB All-Star game.
Luke Voit, First Base/DH, San Diego Padres
People seem to have forgotten about baseball’s 2020 home run king, but with a change of scenery, he will be sure to make his presence known once again. Voit has never received much opportunity during his major league career, but his 69 home runs in 289 games since 2018 is an average of 39 per 162 games. In that time span, Voit boasts an incredible .881 OPS, largely due to his incredible power that the Yankees had seemed to unlock. In San Diego, Voit will mainly play DH and will be able to solely focus on his hitting, which can do wonders for his home run total and health. Expect a big year out of Voit, who is a prime 40-home run candidate, and if he’s not an All-Star, we still may see him at the Home Run Derby.
Camilo Doval, Relief Pitcher, San Francisco Giants
Doval broke out with many others on the Giants last season, but he likely will be no fluke. Doval spent most of last season in the minor leagues, but was called up late in the season and impressed, winning the NL Reliever of the Month for October. His fastball is electric, commonly going well above 100mph, and his slider is simply unfair for the hitters he faces. Now 24 years old, Doval will get a much larger role with the team, likely being brought in for some saves. Although some of the breakout players on San Francisco should take a step back in 2022, Doval is a breakout candidate who could be representing the team and the National League in the All-Star Game.
