A familiar face will be on the mound at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia when the National League takes the field for the 2026 All-Star Game.

According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, Philadelphia Phillies star Cristopher Sanchez will be the starting pitcher for the National League on July 14. Sanchez has logged an 11-4 record and 2.62 ERA with 144 strikeouts across an MLB-leading 20 starts. Sanchez is now a two-time All-Star, but this will be his first time starting the All-Star Game.

The 29-year-old southpaw is having a strong season, boasting a 4.8 % walk rate and impressive 57.6% groundball rate. 

He picked up his 11th win on the season on July 11, going seven innings and only surrendering two earned runs while striking out seven.

His 144 strikeouts rank third in all of MLB and second in the NL. Sanchez has been a dominant force in the Phillies rotation along with Jesus Luzardo, who is also an All-Star this season. Zach Wheeler was invited but declined as he felt disrespected to be an injury replacement. 

Cristopher Sanchez deserving of spot start for ASG

After being overlooked for an All-Star selection in 2025 despite deserving numbers, Sanchez not only made the team in 2026 but gets the honor of starting the game. 

Sanchez produced a strong first-half for the Phillies, with his 2.71 FIP ranking third, his 127.1 innings pitched ranking second, 14 quality starts tied for first and his 4.0 WAR ranking second. Sanchez is certainly deserving of the start, and the recognition is extra sweet after being one of the biggest All-Star snubs last season.

Dylan Cease will take the mound for the AL this year, and it will be interesting to see the two ace's battle. Cease has 148 strikeouts this season.

Sanchez is the seventh Phillies pitcher to start the ASG for the NL.