Hokkaido Nippon Ham right-hander Yuki Saito was named to the Pacific League All-Star team for the first time in the fan balloting as one of the Fighters' record-tying eight selections Monday.
The 24-year-old former Waseda University ace will play in the Midsummer Classic for the second year in a row, but through the official channels in his sophomore season after he was granted special entry in last year's All-Star series.
"I want to thank the fans for voting for me," Saito said. "I want to represent my team well. It's something I need to be aware of and I have to play with pride. I would love it if I get a chance to start."