Memphis

Memphis Natives Goodman and Rooker Secure Spots in MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta

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Published on July 07, 2025
Memphis Natives Goodman and Rooker Secure Spots in MLB All-Star Game in AtlantaSource: Keith Allison from Owings Mills, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Baseball fans, get ready to tip your caps for a dose of hometown pride as two Memphis natives have clinched their spots in the upcoming MLB All-Star Game. Action News 5 reports that Hunter Goodman and Brent Rooker will head to Atlanta for the Midsummer Classic, showcasing the best in the big leagues on July 15. Goodman, hailing from Arlington and a product of the University of Memphis, boasts an impressive .280 average with 16 home runs as the Rockies' catcher. Rooker, a Germantown local, is stepping into his second All-Star appearance with a hefty new contract and a respectable season with the Athletics so far.

In the All-Star rosters announced by Major League Baseball, fans are promised an infusion of young talent among seasoned vets. With 19 players set to make their All-Star game debuts eagerly, we're reminded that, even in baseball, fresh faces can quickly become household names. The game has been confirmed for an 8 PM ET start, with FOX bringing the action into living rooms nationwide. This year, the Dodgers are the most represented team, trotting out five All-Stars, including legend Clayton Kershaw, an "11-time All-Star" and recent inductee to the 3,000-strikeout club, who nabbed a nomination by the Commissioner as a testament to his storied career. The American League and National League rosters are bursting with talent, but they might still see some shifts, as replacements could step in for any players bowing out due to injury or other obligations.

MLB Trade Rumors details the All-Star rosters, revealing a mix of fans’ favorites and players selected by peers and the league. Each team will sport 32 elite players, including the starting nine and a crew of 23 featuring both pitchers and backups. These rosters reflect fan opinion and adhere to the rule guaranteeing each team at least one representative – a crucial point to keep the spirit of inclusivity alive in this star-studded event. Managers Aaron Boone and Dave Roberts will be tasked with announcing the starting pitchers the day before the game, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the already fever-pitch excitement surrounding the event.