HOUSTON – Houston Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel was named the starting pitcher for the American League in Tuesday's All-Star Game in Cincinnati.
Keuchel, who is playing in his first All-Star Game, was tapped to start by AL manager Ned Yost at a Monday afternoon press conference.
"I was able to tell my family, but I couldn't tell many more (people). Even my family has loose lips, so I was thankful for them not telling anybody," said Keuchel. "I never expected this. Just to be on the team with some of the best players in the world is truly an honor."
The 27-year-old is 11-4 (tied for first in wins in league) with a 2.23 ERA (second in league), and has thrown 3 complete games and 2 shutouts on the season.
Keuchel will become the fourth Astros pitcher to start the All-Star game, joining J.R. Richard, Mike Scott (twice) and Roger Clemens.
Astros second baseman Jose Altuve is also starting for the AL squad and will bat eighth in the game.
"It's definitely going to be nice to have a fellow teammate in the lineup and on the field playing behind me," Keuchel said about Altuve.
Houston manager A.J. Hinch is a member of the league's coaching staff.