Phillies’ Jesus Luzardo reveals why he had to pitch in MLB All-Star game

The Philadelphia Phillies are hosting the 2026 MLB All-Star Game, and there are some familiar faces representing the National League for the Phillies. The hosting team has six representatives at the Midsummer Classic this year. One of them, Jesus Luzardo, felt as if he had no choice but to take the opportunity to participate this year.

“I think you don’t want to take for granted first time being an All-Star. I don’t think I could ever turn that down,” the Phillies star said to SPORTSRADIO 94WIP during an interview on Monday. “At the same time, I’d be lying to you if I said a couple days off (didn’t) sound great.”

“(The All-Star Game) is not the same intensity. It’s not the regular season. We’re still having a good time… I could see why guys say ‘I need a couple days off.’ But for me in my situation, first time, in Philly, I don’t think it was ever an option for me to turn down,” Luzardo continued.

Luzardo is in the midst of his second season with the Phillies. The veteran southpaw has pitched to a 3.51 ERA across 19 starts. The 28-year-old has struck out 136 batters this season while issuing just 35 walks.

The Phillies started the season slowly, but have rebounded, thanks in part to Luzardo’s steady play. Philadelphia entered the All-Star break with a 54-43 record, coming off a series win over the Detroit Tigers on the road. The Phillies will begin the second half of the season on Thursday, just two games back of the NL East-leading Atlanta Braves.

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