Why Riley Greene Deserves His Third Straight MLB All-Star Selection

Riley Greene continues to prove he is one of Major League Baseball's best outfielders, yet he remains one of its most underrated players. During his first two seasons, Greene showed tremendous promise before breaking out in his third year. He posted a 5.0 WAR, a 131 OPS+, and earned his first All-Star selection. He followed that performance by making his second consecutive All-Star team in 2025.

Now, at just 25 years old in 2026, Greene has taken another leap. Although he played well overall last season, his performance wasn't quite as strong as it was in 2025. He accumulated less WAR while leading the American League in strikeouts, and his OPS+ dropped 11 points despite recording more RBIs, home runs, and doubles than the previous year.

So, what's different this season?

Greene has made the necessary adjustments.

Greene's Adjustments Are Paying Off

Devin Anderson-Torrez/MLive.com

His plate discipline has improved significantly. He has already drawn 39 walks this season, raising his on-base percentage to .387. He is on track to set career highs in both categories. Greene is also making more consistent contact, as his .290 batting average is the highest of his career.

He's also on pace to finish the season with a career high in doubles and currently has 16. His OPS+ has rebounded nine points to 129. As a result, his overall value has increased, and he is on pace to surpass last season's WAR total.

The underlying metrics reinforce his breakout. Greene ranks in the 89th percentile in walk rate, the 79th percentile in chase rate, and the 78th percentile in launch angle. He also owns elite marks in average exit velocity, barrel rate, hard-hit percentage, and bat speed. Those underlying metrics are the driving force behind his success.

Why Greene Deserves Another All-Star Selection

Greene deserves to earn what would be his third consecutive All-Star selection. He has been one of the few bright spots on a struggling Tigers team that sits in fourth place in the AL Central at 34-45. If he accomplishes that feat, he will become the first Tigers player since the legendary Miguel Cabrera to make three consecutive All-Star teams.

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