Jacob Misiorowski vs. Cristopher Sanchez: Who Should Start the 2026 All-Star Game?

Major League Baseball sparked debate on Friday by asking fans who should start for the National League in the 2026 All-Star Game, highlighting Milwaukee Brewers rookie Jacob Misiorowski and Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cristopher Sánchez. Both pitchers have delivered standout first halves, though scheduling has complicated the discussion.

Misiorowski has posted a 10-4 record with a 1.62 ERA, 167 strikeouts and a 0.76 WHIP across 111 innings. Sánchez has been equally impressive for Philadelphia, entering the break at 10-2 with a 2.62 ERA and 137 strikeouts over 120⅓ innings.

On statistics alone, Misiorowski owns the stronger case. His ERA, WHIP and strikeout totals compare favorably with Sánchez's, making him a deserving candidate based purely on first-half performance.

MLB Frames Sánchez-Misiorowski Debate for NL All-Star Start. Two arms, one ball for the Midsummer Classic.



via @MLBpic.twitter.com/hedqLsJHpO

— Wire Report MLB (@WireReportMLB) July 10, 2026

The debate shifted when the Brewers lined up Misiorowski to face Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes on Sunday. Because of that scheduling decision, he will not be available to pitch in Tuesday's All-Star Game and was replaced on the National League roster by Braxton Ashcraft as part of MLB's July 7 roster update.

Sánchez, meanwhile, is also scheduled to start for the Phillies on Saturday, adding another wrinkle to the National League's decision. His status for Tuesday's game remains uncertain despite the appeal of having the hometown pitcher open the All-Star Game at Citizens Bank Park.

A start by Sánchez would create a memorable moment for Philadelphia fans, while Misiorowski's dominant first half made him the strongest statistical choice before scheduling took him out of consideration.

With both pitchers affected by rotation plans, the National League's starting assignment is no longer as straightforward as the numbers suggest. Even so, each has built an All-Star résumé worthy of recognition through an outstanding first half.

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This story was originally published July 10, 2026 at 5:42 PM.