Ok. I know I'm a homer and my ballot probably proves that, but the all-star ballot is a joke. It's a popularity contest. The all-start game hardly recognizes the games best players, but rather the most popular from the fans...which means the Yankees and the Red Sox. The biggest such travesty this year is Russell Martin beating out Alex Avila. Russell Martin? Are you kidding me? He's batting .230 with no power in a home run haven. Availa? He's only hitting .304. For a catcher! I'm sure the Greek will agree with me, Avila should be starting for the AL.
For what it's worth, here's my AL votes (with the leader in parenthesis):
AL 1B (Adrian Gonzalez, Bos): Gonzalez, Bos. Yeah, this one is pretty easy. He's the first half AL MVP. No question he should be starting.
AL 2B (Robinson Cano, NYY): Cano, NYY. Another pretty obvious choice. Only 2B hitting for average and power consistently....and one of the few teams with a consistent 2B.
AL SS (Derek Jeter, NYY): Peralta, Det. Maybe a homer decision on my part, but how can you honestly vote for Jeter? He shouldn't even be starting for the Yankees right now! Peralta is hitting over .300 with some power and has been the most consistent hitter for the Tigers.
AL 3B (Alex Rodriguez, NYY): Rodriguez, NYY. Yeah, it hurts to vote for anyone sharing a name with our beloved Dick Rod but he's been that good compared to the other 3B. Who else, Brandon Inge? That's like voting Jim Tressell for the most honest coach award.
AL C (Russell Martin, NYY): Avila, Det. I still cannot believe Martin is winning this race. If he had any sense he would withdraw. Attack boy Alex behind the plate!
AL OF (Granderson, Bautista, Hamilton): Granderson, Bautista, Ellsbury. All four of these guys deserve to be there but Hamilton missed some significant time.
I'm not going to bother with the DH. Wait, yes I am. Ortiz of Martinez? I don't think so. Eat'em up Tigers, eat' em up. Stomp the Tribe!
I should probably note that I only differ with one OF, SS, C and DH (40%)
(Note for the Nut: We are talking about baseball here, you know, the sport with the little round white ball with red seams? I know, it's tough for you to follow).
