Minnesota Twins infielder Willi Castro has been named as a replacement to the American League All-Star squad. He’ll replace Jose Altuve of the Houston Astros on the AL roster. Texas Rangers second baseman Marcus Semien will take Altuve’s place in the starting lineup.
Castro, 27, has been every bit the utilityman for the Twins this season, playing at least 20 games at second base, shortstop, left field, third base and centerfield. He’s even made two appearances as a pitcher, throwing 1 1/3 scoreless and hitless innings.
However, he’s been a starting caliber player for Minnesota. Castro has been the team’s starter at second base since Edouard Julien was sent down at the beginning of June. And when shortstop Carlos Correa was out with a hand injury, Castro started there.
The six-year veteran is also having his best year at the plate, batting .268 with a .784 OPS, 22 doubles, five triples, seven home runs and …