Minnesota Twins right hander was the lone All Star selection but proved he was worthy on Tuesday night
The Minnesota Twins Jose Berrios did what all Little Leaguers dream of Tuesday. He took the mound in an MLB All-Star game for the first time in his career. 24-year-old Berrios showed that the moment wasn’t too big for him. He came in at the bottom of the 5th with the AL leading 2-1 and showed why the Twins are excited about him. He showed not only the youthful exuberance we all love, but some of the command issues we don’t.
Wilson Contreras took Berrios to 2-0 before grounding out. Berrios threw a wild breaking ball behind Salvadore Perez, but settled in quickly after that. Much conversation was on the movement of Berrios’ pitches.
That movement was especially prominent when Berrios pitched to the dangerous Javy Baez on 5 pitches. Next, Berrios walked Nolan Arenado on 4 straight. AL fans held their breath when Yadier Molina stepped into the batters box. Few players are more dangerous than Yadi and his power was on full display tonight. Molina crushed one to the center field warning track where it was tracked down for out number 3.
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The All Star Experience is a Family Affair
Berrios only got in one inning of work on Tuesday, but he made the most of his first All Star experience. The youngest Twin to pitch in the All Star game since Bert Blyleven in 1973, Berrios took full advantage of the opportunity.
On Monday, he cheered on fellow Puerto Rican Javy Baez in the Home Run Derby. That night, the 5 Puerto Rican born All Star players, including Baez and Molina, went to dinner together with their families. On Tuesday, Berrios walked the red carpet with his son and daughter in tow.
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In recent years, we have seen young players and their young families enjoying the All Star experience. Baseball has always been a family affair, but one of the best parts of the sport is watching generations come together. Jose Berrios is only 24 years old. If he continues on the road he is on, his son will no doubt get to come to many more All Star games with his dad.