Former Centerville, Wright State catcher Murphy reacts to All-Star honor

Prior to the game Friday in Atlanta, Murphy talked about the All-Star Game honor with reporters.

“It’s great,” he said. “I get to go to the All-Star Game in my first year here. It’s my first All Star game, so I plan on just going out and enjoying it.”

Murphy is the third Braves catcher to be voted a starter by the fans, joining Javy López (2003) and Brian McCann (2011).

Two other Braves, shortstop Orlando Arcia and outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., also will start. The team could have more All-Stars when the complete rosters are announced at 5:30 p.m. Sunday on ESPN.

“The more the merrier,” Murphy said. “Braves country was great getting us in the game, and hopefully we’ll see even more.”

Murphy said his parents, Mike and Marge, were excited to hear the news and his dad was emotional. He said they will fly to Seattle for the 93rd Midsummer Classic, which will take place at T-Mobile Park on July 11.

“My parents have been there for me this whole time,” Murphy said. “I think they’re going to have a blast.”

The Braves (54-27) won their sixth straight game Friday. They own the best record in the National League by six games and have a seven-game lead in the American League East Division.

The Braves acquired Murphy from the A’s in December in a three-team deal. He then signed a six-year, $73 million extension through the 2028 season with a 2029 club option on Dec. 27.

Murphy has started 53 games at catcher. Backup Travis d’Arnaud has started 23. Murphy has hit cleanup 39 times this season but has hit fifth his last three starts and 10 times overall.

Murphy said playing in the All-Star game was never a goal.

“I just care more about winning games here,” he said, “but if it’s a side effect of success, that’s great.”

Murphy is just as excited about watching the Home Run Derby.

“It was my favorite thing growing up as a kid,” he said. “I didn’t watch the game that much. It was the Home Run Derby I was excited, so getting to see it in person will be fun.”