Erick Aybar replaces injured Alex Gordon on AL All-Star roster

Los Angeles Angels shortstop Erick Aybar will replace Kansas City Royals outfielder Alex Gordon on the American League All-Star roster, MLB announced Thursday.

It will be Aybar's first All-Star appearance in his nine-year MLB career. He's filling in for Gordon, who injured his wrist last week while sliding into a base against the Indians.

Aybar has quietly produced near-career highs across the board. With 45 RBIs, he's on pace to obliterate his previous high of 59 in 2011. He's also hitting .283 with six home runs and 11 stolen bases. Aybar ranks third among MLB shortstops in Fangraphs' WAR rankings at 2.6.

SI Wire: Cardinals' Molina expected to miss 8-12 weeks

Gordon had been selected as a reserve after not being voted in by the fans. He's hitting .268 with nine home runs and 44 RBIs.

Aybar's Angels teammates were understandably excited for him, MLB.com reporter Lyle Spencer tweeted.

- Evan Webeck