St. Louis Cardinals catcher/designated hitter Iván Herrera will get his first taste of the Midsummer Classic. MLB announced that Herrera has been selected as a replacement for Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani on the National League roster for the 2026 All-Star Game in Philadelphia.
Ohtani, the leading vote-getter among NL designated hitters and one of the game’s transcendent talents, was scratched from the contest due to ongoing irritation in his left knee. The Dodgers’ two-way phenom will undergo further evaluation and treatment rather than travel east for the July 14 showcase at Citizens Bank Park.
For Herrera, the call-up represents validation of a standout 2026 campaign that has seen him anchor the Cardinals’ lineup with both his bat and durability. The 26-year-old Panama native has started every game for St. Louis, delivering a .258/.396/.406 slash line with 10 home runs, solid on-base skills, and the kind of consistent production that has helped keep the Cardinals competitive in the NL Central race.
While Herrera has split time between catcher and DH, his offensive output — particularly his discerning eye at the plate — has drawn increasing acclaim. Among qualified catchers, he ranks near the top in several key metrics, making a compelling case as one of the league’s most productive backstops. His selection also provides the Cardinals with multiple All-Star representatives, joining outfielder Jordan Walker and providing a much-needed boost for a franchise that has long prided itself on developing homegrown talent.
Herrera’s journey to this point has not been without setbacks. Injuries have tested him in prior seasons, but his 2026 campaign has been marked by ironman durability and steady improvement behind the plate, where he has logged significant innings while maintaining offensive value. In an era where many teams prioritize specialized roles, Herrera’s versatility as a bat-first catcher who can also handle the duties of a primary DH has made him an invaluable piece for manager Oliver Marmol’s club.
Ohtani’s absence creates a notable void in the NL lineup. The reigning MVP candidate has been nothing short of dominant, blending elite hitting with the occasional pitching appearance that continues to captivate fans worldwide. His withdrawal is a reminder of the physical toll even the game’s brightest stars endure, but it also opens the door for deserving players like Herrera to step into the spotlight.
The 2026 All-Star Game festivities get underway next week in Philadelphia. While Ohtani’s star power will be missed, Herrera’s inclusion ensures that the narrative of the Midsummer Classic will include a feel-good story from the heartland — one of perseverance, production, and a well-earned moment in the sun.
