Rays closer Bryan Baker earns first All-Star selection in breakout season Bryan Baker, the Tampa Bay Rays' closer, has made history by securing his first career All-Star selection, marking a significant milestone in his breakout season. With 25 saves, Baker ranks second in Major League Baseball, a testament to his dominance in the bullpen. He will join his teammates at the MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia, where he will experience the prestigious event for the first time. The news of his selection came as a surprise to Baker, who described it as a "huge shock" and something he "didn't see coming." He emphasized that the achievement was unexpected, stating, "It's probably the last thing I expected that day." Despite the surprise, Baker expressed gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging the support of his teammates and coaches. Baker's journey to this moment has been shaped by his collaboration with the Rays' pitching staff. He credited the team's professionalism and the environment that allows him to perform at his best. "I've embraced it and tried to trust everyone around me," he said. "They seem to get us in the right spot and allow us to be the best version of ourselves." The All-Star Game will be a new experience for Baker, who will share the spotlight with four fellow Rays players: Drew Rasmussen, Yandy Diaz, Nick Martinez, and Junior Caminero. This marks a franchise record, with five Rays selected for the event. Baker expressed excitement about the opportunity to learn from his teammates, saying, "I'll be following Ras, Cami, and Yandy for the most part. Just soaking it all in. I think it will be really fun." Rasmussen, also making his All-Star debut, described the experience as overwhelming. "It's a pretty busy two days. Your schedule is booked out from 10 a.m. to midnight.#tampa_bay_rays #yandy_diaz #drew_rasmussen #bryan_baker #mlb_all_star_game
