Rangers outfielder Nelson Cruz to replace Angels’ Torii Hunter on AL All-Star squad

OF Cruz to replace injured Hunter on AL squad

NEW YORK — Texas Rangers outfielder Nelson Cruz has been picked for the American League All-Star roster, replacing injured Los Angeles Angels center fielder Torii Hunter.

Major League Baseball said Friday that Cruz was chosen because he received the next-highest number of votes for outfielders on the AL player ballot.

Cruz entered Friday batting .262 with 20 homers and 50 RBIs for the Rangers. It’s the fifth-year player’s first All-Star selection, and Cruz is the 27th first-time All-Star set to play next Tuesday in St. Louis.

Hunter has not played since Tuesday because of a strained abductor muscle.