It took a few days longer than it should have, but Braxton Ashcraft is an All-Star.
The Pirates’ best starting pitcher in 2026, Ashcraft has burst onto the scene in his first full year as a major leaguer.
In 18 starts, Ashcraft owns a 3.24 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and 122 strikeouts in 108.1 innings.
Ashcraft originally wasn’t voted to the National League All-Star roster, but was named as a replacement for Paul Skenes.
Skenes was the only Pirate initially selected to the Mid-Summer
Classic on the other side of the state in Philadelphia.
Ashcraft, 26, owns a 10.14 K/9 and has been one of the biggest surprises of any NL pitcher.
The strong right-hander is fourth in the National League in strikeouts (122), fourth in innings (108.1), 11th in ERA (3.24), and tied for ninth in wins (9-3).
The Pirates are 12-6 in games that Ashcraft starts.
Ashcraft owns two starts this season with 10 or more strikeouts and not allowing a free pass.
He’s allowed two or fewer runs in 14 of his 18 starts. In the midst of an unstable rotation, Ashcraft has been the anchor that Pittsburgh has relied on.
The 2026 MLB All-Star Game will commence on Tuesday, July 14, at 8 p.m. at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
