WASHINGTON (DC News Now) – The Washington Nationals starting shortstop CJ Abrams has been named to the national league’s 2024 MLB All-Star roster as an infield alternate.

Abrams is the Nationals’ only representative at this year’s midsummer classic taking place in Arlington, Texas. Abrams found out Sunday when manager Dave Martinez made the announcement in the team’s clubhouse ahead of their game against the St. Louis Cardinals.

This marks the first time Abrams has been named an All-Star in his young career, as he entered his second full season with the Nationals this year.

Abrams was acquired by the Nationals via the Juan Soto trade with the San Diego Padres in 2022. Abrams made his MLB debut with San Diego in 2022 and once traded to Washington, he quickly rose through the ranks to become the Nationals’ starting shortstop and now, their leadoff hitter.

This season, Abrams has broken out into a star both defensively and at the plate.

Currently, Abrams ranks first in national league shortstops in slugging percentage (.506), third in batting average (.282) and home runs (14), and second in RBI (46), OPS (.859), and OBP (.353).

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