Monarchs’ Gavin Named To All-Star Team

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Another Kansas City Monarchs pitcher is heading to the All-Star Game.

Lockdown reliever Grant Gavin was named an injury replacement to the American Association’s West Division roster, the Monarchs announced Sunday.

Gavin is the sixth Monarch to earn an All-Star nod. Catcher Chris Herrmann and second baseman Justin Wylie will be in the West’s starting lineup. Pitchers Jalen Miller and Trey Jeans were named to the initial staff. Catcher and infielder Gavin Collins won a fan vote for the last spot on the West roster.

Gavin is Kansas City’s primary workhorse reliever, leading the team with 22 appearances. He also paces the Monarchs with an impressive 13.5 strikeouts per nine innings.

Originally from Parkville Missouri, Gavin was a Royals draft pick in 2016 out of the University of Central Missouri. He’s pitched at the Triple-A level with the Royals and Padres organizations.

The American Association’s 2023 All-Star Game is scheduled for Tuesday at 6:35 p.m. from Franklin Field, home of the Milwaukee Milkmen. The league Home Run Derby takes place Monday, with Herrmann expected to compete.