Red Sox closer Koji Uehara added to AL All-Star roster

Boston Red Sox reliever Koji Uehara has been added to the American League roster for the All-Star Game.

He replaces New York Yankees starter Masahiro Tanaka, who was placed on the disabled list on Wednesday.

It's the first major league All-Star selection for Uehara. He was honored for the Yomiuri Giants in Japan eight times.

The 39-year-old closer is 4-2 with 18 saves and a 1.30 ERA this season.

Uehara joins left-hander Jon Lester as the Boston representatives for next week's game in Minneapolis.