Jun 30 2008
All Star Races
As we approach the All Star Game in New York City, there are several intriguing races that involve deserving players. Perhaps the most interesting among these races are the NL and AL starting second baseman. The American League has both Ian Kinsler and Dustin Pedroia, at last count this is where we stood:
1. Pedroia, D. Red Sox 1,286,962
2. Kinsler, I. Rangers 1,120,439
Pedroia, who has raised his average from .260 to .307 in just two weeks, is an amazing 32 for his last 59 including a home run on Sunday. Kinsler has been hot all year, hitting .318 with 13 hr’s, 50 rbi, and 20 sb’s. He too has been hot in the midst of an 11 game hitting streak. Both are all star caliber players but Kinsler has truly been the standout. Unfortunately for him Pedroia is on the Red Sox and will likely receive the necessary support to start the game. Kinser will be there though, and by being there will get his name out there for the future.
The National League race is even more brutal between Philadelphia’s Chase Utley and Florida’s Dan Uggla. As the race stands:
1. Utley, C. Philles 2,179,006
2. DeRosa, M. Cubs 940,404
3. Matsui, K. Astros 742,425
4. Uggla, D. Marlins 675,358
Both Utley and Uggla lead the NL with 23 hr’s, Utley is hitting .298 and Uggla .289. Utley has 65 rbi and Uggla has 58. The two are the obvious statistical candidates and are both team leaders offensively. By comparison DeRosa is hitting .289 with only 8 hr’s and less steals, rbi and runs than Uggla. Matsui is even worse, with a .271 avg and only 1 hr and 18 rbi. While in fairness Uggla should be battling Utley, we will no doubt see both in New York barring a brainfart from NL manager Clint Hurdle.
The All Star Game has always been for the fans, and it looks like we will get to see the fan’s impart their will on the starting rosters. We can only hope for these same fans that their league is best represented and has the best chance possible to win home field advantage for its league champion.
