Three New York Yankees Named to 2016 All-Star Team

Yankees #36 Carlos Beltran rounds the bases on his two run homer during the first inning at Yankee Stadium in New York, April 12, 2014. (Ray Stubblebine)

On Tuesday afternoon Major League Baseball announced that New York Yankees’ relievers Andrew Miller and Dellin Betances, and outfielder Carlos Beltran have been named to the 2016 All-Star Game in San Diego.

Beltran, 39, is hitting .297 with 19 home runs and 54 RBIs and has been the known force in the Yankees’ lineup.

“I think they deserve it,” Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. “I think Carlos has had a great first half. You look at his numbers, they’re really, really good. And those two guys in the back of the bullpen have been outstanding. When you get in a game like the All-Star Game, you want strikeout guys. And that’s what they are. They’re a big part of what they do here. I’m happy for them.”

The game will be Beltran’s ninth All-Star Game appearance, and he will be the second oldest player at the event behind Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (40).

“I’m very happy, very blessed, to have the opportunity to be part of another All-Star Game,” said Beltran, who has been chosen for nine. “I’m looking forward to go there with my family. … I’m very proud and very happy of being able to accomplish this at this point in my career.”

Miller and Betances have both been lights-out in the strong back end of the Yankee bullpen.

For Betances, it will be his third consecutive All-Star Game and Miller’s first.

“I’m blessed,” Betances said. “For me to say I’ve been to three All-Star teams my first three years in the league, I’ve put in a lot of hard work. It wasn’t easy to get here. I didn’t make many in the minor leagues. It was an exciting moment. I can’t wait to be in San Diego.”

“We try to make the All-Star team starting in Little League all the way up,” Miller said. “To do it at this level is something special. Fortunately, I’ve been able to put together a couple of good months to start the season. Just looking forward to it. I don’t know what to expect. Should be a lot of fun.”

The game will be played on July 12 and televised on FOX.