(SportsRadio 610) -- Four Astros have been named to the 2021 MLB All-Star Game.
Infielders Jose Altuve (second base) and Carlos Correa (shortstop) join left fielder Michael Brantley and closer Ryan Pressly as the Astros' four representatives on July 12 at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado.
All four Astros All-Stars spoke to reporters following the completion of their season sweep of the Cleveland Indians.
"It means a lot," Altuve said Altuve, who will make his seventh All-Star appearance, tying a franchise with Craig Biggio. "Obviously, this is a big accomplishment for anybody so we never take it for granted."
Brantley said it's always appreciated to be recognized, but credited his teammates and those around him for the success.
"Everybody that helps out you along the way to even put up the stats, or even get the recognition, you never do it by yourself," said Brantley, who is leading the American League in batting average (.340). This is Brantley's fifth career All-Star selection and his second with the Astros.
Houston Astros designated hitter Michael Brantley (23) celebrates with shortstop Carlos Correa (1) after hitting a home run during the seventh inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field.Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
For Correa, who is in a contract year, this is his second career All-Star appearance. Correa entered Sunday's game against the Indians leading all Major League position players in Win Above Replacement.
"It really means a lot," Correa said Sunday. "It's been a lot of hard work, a lot of dedication. So, I just want to thank the people who voted for me throughout the whole process, Houston and Puerto Rico, everybody that voted for me. Thank you guys so much. It truly means everything to me."
Pressly, like Correa, is making his second career All-Star appearance. He holds a 4-1 record with a 1.54 ERA and 14 saves in 15 chances.
He entered Sunday's game against the Indians tied for first among American League relievers in save percentage (93.3 percent), third in ERA, fourth in WHIP (.083) and tied for fifth in saves.
Pressly has not allowed an earned run in 12 straight appearances.
"It's definitely humbling," Pressly said. "I'm honored, obviously. But I don't think I could've done it without my teammates. Those guys are sacrificing their bodies for me in the ninth inning. So a lot of my thanks goes out to them and their preparation behind me is unbelievable."
Houston Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly (55) throws a pitch against the Cleveland Indians during the ninth inning at Progressive Field.Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
