After 11 years (and a couple of extra days), Jed Lowrie is finally an All-Star.
The A's second baseman was officially named to the American League roster Tuesday as an injury replacement for Yankees rookie Gleyber Torres.
"It's very exciting," Lowrie said. "Let's just say the last few days have been an emotional roller coaster. I think I was a little surprised that I didn't get it at first, and then just happy to be a part of it now."
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"I think it's great," A's manager Bob Melvin added. "That was a very rewarding phone call I got to make today because we all know he should have been on the team."
It probably shouldn't have even come to this. Lowrie leads all qualified American League second basemen with 16 home runs, 62 RBI, 42 extra base hits, and a .504 slugging percentage. He ranks second with 25 doubles and 3.4 WAR, and third with a .288 batting average, .358 on-base percentage, and 100 hits.
"I put a lot of time and effort into my craft," Lowrie said. "I've said this a lot - getting the chance to go to an All-Star Game would kind of be the icing on the cake, and it looks like I get to eat some icing on my cake."
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Added Melvin: "He's playing his best baseball. Last year was probably his best year, and this year is even better. It's a credit to him, the condition that he keeps himself in. He's certainly a smart guy, has a great understanding each and every year how to get better, what his strengths and weaknesses are, and how he's going to be pitched It's fun to watch and it's a great resource for our younger guys too."
Lowrie will become the first A's middle infielder to play in an All-Star Game since Miguel Tejada in 2002. At the age of 34, he truly cherishes the opportunity.
"I showed some perseverance and worked hard to get to this point," Lowrie said. "I think any All-Star Game would have a lot of meeting, but I think for the first time as a 34-year-old, it's pretty special.
"I'm going to have my daughter and son there. Those are moments that I'll never forget."