Aroldis Chapman and his triple-digit fastball are heading back to the All-Star Game for a sixth time, but the Yankees' closer expected his traveling party to be larger for Monday's Midsummer Classic at Cleveland's Progressive Field.
Chapman was the only Yankees player added to the roster on Sunday, joining previously selected All-Stars DJ LeMahieu and Gary Sánchez as the reserves and pitchers were announced on ESPN. Those spots were determined by the player ballot and the Commissioner's office.
"To me, I thought we were going to have six or seven All-Stars from this team," Chapman said through a translator. "It's a little surprising."
Other finalists from the Bombers' roster included first baseman Luke Voit, third baseman Gio Urshela, shortstop Gleyber Torres and outfielder Aaron Judge. Torres was added to the roster on Thursday when Rays infielder Brandon Lowe went on the injured list, and Masahiro Tanaka was added to the roster Saturday with Blue Jays right-hander Marcus Stroman out with a pec injury.
Chapman has been an All-Star in back-to-back seasons with the Yankees following four consecutive selections with the Reds from 2012-15.
"The Cuban Missile" is enjoying a dominant campaign, having registered a 1.36 ERA and 23 saves in 35 appearances. In 33 innings, Chapman has permitted eight runs (five earned) while walking nine against 47 strikeouts.
"I was expecting that," said Sanchez, who was tabbed as the American League's starting catcher. "His numbers have been impressive. The first half he's had, he's done what he knows how to do, which is pitch that well."
Chapman said that in his previous trips to the All-Star Game, he has enjoyed taking in the Home Run Derby, speaking with the other players and -- of course -- pitching in the contest.
"I'm happy. Very excited about it," Chapman said. "I think we've had a really good year so far and I'm focusing on helping the team any way possible. That's what we want, so I'm excited about that."
The 2019 All-Star Game will be played on Tuesday at Progressive Field in Cleveland. It will be televised nationally by FOX Sports; in Canada by Rogers Sportsnet and RDS; and worldwide by partners in more than 180 countries.
FOX Deportes will provide Spanish-language coverage in the United States, while ESPN Radio and ESPN Radio Deportes will provide exclusive national radio coverage. MLB Network, MLB.com and SiriusXM also will provide comprehensive All-Star Week coverage.