Seattle native Corbin Carroll, the Arizona Diamondbacks' rising star rookie, will fulfill a lifelong dream when he starts in left field for the National League All-Star team at T-Mobile Park. A devoted Mariners fan in his youth, Carroll idolized players like Ichiro Suzuki and Félix Hernández. Now, he's taking center stage in a moment he recognizes as truly special.

This isn't just Carroll's first All-Star Game; it's his first time playing at T-Mobile Park. Even in high school, he came close, with his team falling just short of playing a state tournament game there. "I plan to soak it all in and enjoy the experience," Carroll remarked. "Usually, I'm very focused during games, but I want to savor this moment, connect with the other players, and appreciate everything."

Carroll honed his skills at Seattle's Lakeside School, an institution known for notable alumni like Bill Gates and Paul Allen. However, Carroll represents a new level of athletic achievement for the school. After hitting .540 with a 1.859 OPS in his senior year, the Diamondbacks selected him 16th overall in the 2019 draft. His rapid ascent through the minors has positioned him as a leading contender for National League Rookie of the Year.

He's achieved a rare feat for a rookie: 15 home runs and 25 stolen bases before the All-Star break. Diamondbacks All-Star shortstop Geraldo Perdomo praised Carroll's impact, stating, "He’s been our MVP so far. He's incredible on the basepaths, hits for power and average – he's a true all-around player." Carroll's 18 home runs, 26 stolen bases, .289 average, .366 on-base percentage, and .549 slugging percentage have been instrumental in the Diamondbacks' success, as they're currently tied with the Dodgers for first place in the NL West.

Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw acknowledged Carroll's talent, saying, "He does it all. His speed, defense, and power make him a formidable opponent." Even if he hadn't been selected for the All-Star Game, Carroll planned to be in Seattle to spend time with his family. "I already had a flight booked to come home," he shared. "If I wasn't playing, I'd probably be here as a fan, enjoying the game."

At 22, Carroll is too young to remember the 2001 All-Star Game in Seattle, which featured eight Mariners. However, he's excited to create new memories for himself, his family, and the fans at the ballpark where his love for baseball began. A recent tweet from Carroll's mother showed him as a child outside T-Mobile Park's left field gate, the same spot where his All-Star banner now hangs. Carroll described it as a "full circle moment, definitely surreal. That poster was Jamie Moyer’s when I was a kid. To be featured now is truly special."