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Shane Smith Is First Rule 5–Selected Pitcher Named to AL All-Star Game

Chicago’s undrafted rookie right-hander will represent the American League in Atlanta after a breakout start to his major-league career.

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Overview

  • Shane Smith earned the American League’s sole White Sox nomination for the July 15 All-Star Game in Atlanta.
  • He became the first pitcher in MLB history chosen via the Rule 5 Draft to crack an All-Star roster.
  • Smith is the White Sox’s first rookie pitcher All-Star and the club’s first rookie representative since José Abreu in 2014.
  • His early 2.37 ERA through 13 starts rose to 4.20 after allowing five runs in his latest outing and struggling over a four-game stretch.
  • His journey from undrafted Wake Forest graduate to a Rule 5 pick highlights the draft’s role in elevating overlooked talent to the majors.