The Los Angeles Dodgers are currently riding the third-longest postseason streak in MLB history and have been one of the most talented teams in the league for several years now. Though they took a step back this offseason, they still definitely have enough to win a World Series with this roster.
On top of the big names, the Dodgers have also mastered the ability to get All-Star performances out of players who were not previously of that caliber. Based on history alone, Dodgers fans should expect at least one All-Star surprise this season.
That being said, there are also some notable players on the roster who have not earned a trip to the Midsummer Classic in their career. Not all of these players will end up getting the nod, but there are five favorites who could be making their first All-Star Game trip to Seattle this year.
5 Dodgers who could become first-time All-Stars in 2023
5. Evan Phillips
Evan Phillips was by far the best reliever on the Dodgers in 2022 and if he pitches the same way in 2023 then it will be hard to deny him a trip to the All-Star Game. Not many relievers ultimately get the call, but Phillips certainly pitched like an All-Star last season and will have his role elevated this year.
Phillips spun 63 innings for the Dodgers last season, finishing with a 1.14 ERA, 0.76 WHIP and 77 strikeouts. The right-handed reclamation project was the only pitcher in the entire league last season to throw at least 60 innings and have an ERA below 1.15. Since 2010, it has only happened 11 times. That is how special Phillips was.
Phillips is the most qualified pitcher in the bullpen to handle the ninth inning. If he gets the full-time closer role then he will have an ironclad case to make the NL All-Star team should he continue on this trajectory.