The Los Angeles Dodgers currently lead National League All-Star voting, underscoring the team’s growing fan support despite ongoing criticism from some quarters. As of the latest tally released Monday, four Dodgers players are holding strong leads for starting positions: Shohei Ohtani at designated hitter, Freddie Freeman at first base, Max Muncy at third base, and Andy Pages in the outfield. Additionally, Mookie Betts ranks second among shortstops, and Will Smith is second at catcher, raising the possibility that the Dodgers could have as many as six starters in the All-Star Game.

This potential surge would mark a rare occurrence in Major League history, with only one previous instance in Dodgers franchise history—dating back to 1980—when four players started an All-Star Game. Dodgers president Stan Kasten acknowledged the impact of the team’s broad fan base, which extends internationally, notably to Japan. He emphasized that the players leading the voting are deserving, reflecting their performance this season.

“You look across the league and we have a lot of recognizable names,” said Muncy. “We have really talented players who have been playing really well this year. For a lot of us, the game has been speaking for us.” Freeman added that the team’s recent success and visibility have contributed to the voter support. “We’ve played well the last couple of years. We’re playing well again. A lot of eyes are on us. A lot of fans know all of us. And we’re playing good baseball.”

Critics of the Dodgers have often cited the team’s dominance and high payroll as factors contributing to an uneven playing field in Major League Baseball. Some have even suggested that the league would be better off shutting down rather than allowing such disparities to continue. However, team officials and players reject this narrative. Kasten called such critiques unfounded, asserting that the Dodgers have been beneficial to the sport. Freeman echoed this sentiment, citing enthusiastic crowds as evidence. For example, following a recent Dodgers series in Chicago, the White Sox, which average 22,000 attendees per game, sold out all three games with more than 38,000 fans.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts dismissed claims that the team’s success harms baseball, describing such opinions as “lazy.” He suggested that fans continue to appreciate the talent and style of play the Dodgers bring. “People still love talent. They love the way our guys play. And they should be showcased in the midsummer classic,” Roberts said.

This year’s All-Star Game is set to take place in Philadelphia, a city known for its passionate baseball fans and intense rivalries. The presence of multiple Dodgers players on the National League roster is likely to provoke strong reactions from the home crowd. Muncy predicted a mix of cheers and boos but emphasized that the All-Star Game is ultimately a celebration of individual excellence, regardless of team affiliation.

Still, given Philadelphia fans’ reputation for vociferous reactions—including historically booing Santa Claus—Dodgers players like Ohtani may be prepared for a challenging reception.