Skenes, Reynolds selected to MLB All-Star Game

Following a tough loss to the New York Mets Sunday, Pittsburgh Pirates fans found a reason to celebrate after learning that rookie pitcher Paul Skenes and veteran outfielder Bryan Reynolds were selected to represent the Pirates at this year's MLB All-Star Game.Reynolds will make his second trip to the Mid-Summer Classic, fresh off a 25-game hitting streak."He’s about as consistent as anyone I’ve ever been around in terms of his demeanor, in terms of how he attacks his at-bats," manager Derek Shelton said of Reynolds. "This guy plays harder than or just as hard as anybody in the game every night."Reynolds will be joined by Skenes, who is quickly becoming a household name in Pittsburgh."It’s a no-brainer," said Chris Miller, of the Pirates fan group Renegades of the Rotunda. "It’s an absolute no-brainer."Skenes, 5-0 with an ERA of 2.12, has struck out 78 batters in 59.1 innings pitched. At just 22, Skenes' first All-Star selection comes eight weeks into his big league career."It’s an honor to be able to represent the city of Pittsburgh and the Pirates in the All-Star game but definitely wish we could share that with more people," Skenes said, alluding to other players he suggested were also deserving of a selection.With his selection, Skenes becomes the first player in MLB history to be drafted first overall and make an All-Star team the very next season.