Last year, Ian Kinsler didn't make the All-Star Team in the midst of what would be a 30/30 season. Instead, Brandon Inge and his .720 OPS took his spot. One year later, and Kinsler has been graced with a little more luck than last time. Because Dustin Pedroia will be unable to play, Kinsler has been named a reserve on the AL squad behind Robinson Cano at 2B. This will be his 2nd All-Star appearance.
In spite of a down year so far in the power department, Ryan Braun made the NL squad as a starter for the 3rd year in a row. He also led all MLB outfielders in fan voting for the 3rd consecutive year.
The wild card, of course, is Kevin Youkilis. Though he is certainly deserving of what would be his 3rd All-Star appearance, he faces tough competition for the last spot on the AL roster. Fans will have an opportunity via online balloting to select the final player to make the squad. The other players up for the spot are Paul Konerko, Nick Swisher, Michael Young, and Delmon Young. It should be noted that Youk leads all of the above players in OBP, SLG, OPS, BBs, HBP, extra-base hits, WAR (Wins Above Replacement for position players), runs scored, and triples. Voting will close on Thursday at 4 p.m.
1 comment:
No question Youk should be at the All Star game and you know how hard that is for me to admit.
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