Friday was the definition of a full-circle moment for Toronto Blue Jays catcher Alejandro Kirk, who alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr, was named a 2022 MLB All-Star Game starter for the American League.

Prior to facing the Seattle Mariners, Kirk spoke to reporters and expressed how much this moment means to him and his family.

Quotes from Shane Lantz and Shi Davidi:

“It’s gonna be very emotional, I mean, being with those big time players, people I read or people that I used to see on TV. Now to be there, it’s going to be very emotional.”

“Very emotional, for me and me entire family. We’re very, very close and we can’t believe it yet.”

Alejandro Kirk also made history with his selection, becoming the youngest catcher to start the All-Star Game since Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez in 1995. Via Sarah Langs:

23 years old and playing in the All-Star Game as a starter. It must truly be a surreal feeling for Kirk. The Mexico native, who hails from Tijuana, was signed by the Jays in 2016 out of the Mexican Baseball League for just $7,500. Needless to say, he's proven to be even better than anyone could've imagined.

Alejandro Kirk had a cup of coffee in the Majors in 2020 and then played 60 games last season, spending time in Triple-A as well. In 2022 though, he broke onto the scene and absolutely flourished. Kirk is hitting .312 with 10 home runs and 33 RBI in 74 games. He also has an impressive OPS of .890.

The catcher received over a million fan votes, the most for any player at his position in the AL. This is just the start of what will hopefully be a long and successful career in the Majors.

Congratulations to Kirk and his family.