Major League Baseball’s All-Star selection process is under fresh scrutiny after a series of high-profile omissions and an unprecedented rookie call-up to next week’s game in Atlanta. New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto, a four-time All-Star who signed a record 15-year, $765 million contract that could reach $805 million, was left off the National League roster. The decision cost the 25-year-old a $100,000 incentive written into his deal. Asked whether he wanted to be chosen, Soto replied, “What do you think? I think it’s a lot of money on the table if I make it.” In one of the most debated moves, Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Jacob Misiorowski was added as an injury replacement after just five major-league starts. The 22-year-old owns a 2.81 ERA over 25⅔ innings but breaks last season’s record for fewest starts by an All-Star pitcher, drawing criticism from former Mets pitcher and broadcaster Ron Darling, who said the choice is “kind of a joke to the game.” The Philadelphia Phillies, meanwhile, were incensed that starters Cristopher Sánchez and Ranger Suárez were bypassed despite ERAs of 2.59 and 1.94, respectively. Phillies players called the omissions “a joke,” arguing the league favored marketability over performance. In a show of support, Philadelphia’s front office activated Sánchez’s $50,000 All-Star bonus anyway. The controversy has reopened debate over how MLB balances on-field merit, fan engagement and marketing in determining its midsummer showcase, with several players warning that credibility is at stake if performance is not the primary criterion.