This could have gone very poorly for the New York Yankees!

Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suarez, one of the biggest names who is expected to move before the trade deadline, took a fastball off his left hand during the All-Star Game. But that’s not even the craziest part. Wait till you hear who the pitcher in question was. Shane Smith of the Chicago White Sox.

This could have been bad for New York, given that they have been eyeing Suarez for their third base. And everyone in the Bronx knows how much of a struggle that position has been and how they are still struggling for it.

The ball came roaring, and it drilled Suarez right on the ring and pinky fingers—a classic spot for a bone break. No amount of padding in the glove helps there. Thankfully, he stayed in the game, but further imaging would be required.

Now, this could affect his trade value, and also the New York Yankees’ plan could take a huge setback. And here is where the frustration boils over. Shane Smith, who made the All-Star team, only did so because of MLB’s current policy, which requires every single team to have at least one representative at the game. Not because he is having a dominant season like others. Even if a team is in last place, or even if they are in rebuild mode, someone has to be there. And this policy is under fire from fans and players alike.

In fact, Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo called the entire selection process a broken one. He told The New York Post, “I don’t think every team should get a person. It’s supposed to be All-Stars. It’s not supposed to be, ‘Who is the best player on every team?’ It’s supposed to be, ‘Who are the best players in the major leagues?'” 

This wasn’t just about a bruised hand—it is about a system that could cost a team a trade target and a player his momentum. For now, Suarez might have avoided a disaster, but MLB’s selection policy might not be a piece of cake for fans, and they are making it known.

New York Yankee fans call for a change of MLB rules after freak accident

One user mentioned, “And this is why we don’t need a rep from every team. Forcing a dog-s— pitcher from the White Sox resulted in this. This isn’t a participation contest.” Tbh, Smith would not have made the roster if MLB were only selecting the best of the best. But there is another side to this. Without a one-rep-per-team rule, the All-Star game would be a Yankee-Red Sox or Dodgers-Mets showdown. Smaller market teams, struggling ones, and breakout players would get completely shut down. And the game is, after all, a celebration of all of baseball, not just the biggest brands. But yes, for the fans, this is brutal.

One frustrated fan summed up the mood perfectly: “This is really getting out of hand… I swear if this puts him on the IL, I’d be livid!” Suarez has been in the thick of the trade deadline. ESPN’s Jeff Passan gave him a 50% chance of getting moved. Plus, they named the Yankees as one of the strong suitors. New York Yankees, after letting go of DJ LeMahieu just a week ago, know that they need an upgrade, and Suarez has the bat to deliver.

Frustrated, another fan asked, “Why is Shane Smith even in the All-Star Game?” A fair question. Smith gave five earned runs to the 21-69 Rockies the same day that he was named an All-Star. So clearly, he is far from lights out. And while he made team history in his first 18 starts to become the second Rule 5 pick since 2006, the selection feels like a stretch. Fans have the feeling that the league is forcing spots for underqualified players.

“Shane Smith hit Eugenio?” one was almost in shock. The Chicago White Sox are essentially choked up. Smith is a rookie. Meanwhile, Suarez is collected and a veteran at 33 years old, still putting up near career highs in isolated power and in wRC+, which measures the total offensive production. Sure, the glove isn’t what it once was, but he can do great at third. Plus, with top prospect Jordan Lawlar tearing it up in Triple-A, the Diamondbacks have every reason to cash in on Suarez before he hits free agency.

Another user remarked, “Time to cancel the All-Star Game or move it to after the World Series. This didn’t need to happen.” Because players can’t afford to get injured! Many had opted out of the Home Run Derby, too, like Ohtani and Judge, fearing the same.

There is growing unrest about the way the MLB selection goes for these games, not just among fans but also players. The Phillies’ clubhouse, for example, was mad when Cristopher Sanche and Ranger Suarez didn’t end up making it. But rookie Jacob Misirowski could after five starts, and MLB got plenty of slack for it!

So, do you think the process needs a change? Let us know in the comments section.