Answering the Call for Back Up
Francisco Lindor, Cleveland Indians, Shortstop
This is now the third-straight All-Star game for the 24-year-old Puerto Rican. Despite being fifth among MLB shortstops in both stolen bases (13) and total double plays (56), the Gold Glove, Platinum Glove, and Silver Slugger winner will be coming off the bench this time. But prepared for a highlight reel once he does enter the game.
Nelson Cruz, Seattle Mariners, Outfielder/Designated Hitter
Age (38-years-old) is only a number for this veteran from the Dominican Republic. Among every player who has been used as a DH this year, Cruz leads this group with 22 home runs, ranks second with 55 RBI’s, he’s also second with 39 runs scored, and he has the best slash line in this category (.267/.363/.538/.902).
Yan Gomes, Cleveland Indians, Catcher
Brazil’s first-ever Major League player is finally getting his chance to be an All-Star. And when you consider he’s seventh among American League catchers with seven home runs, sixth among his backstop peers with 32 RBI’s, and leads this group with 17 doubles, he was due for this chance.
The American League is also thin on pitchers but Edwin Diaz of the Mariners, Joe Jimenez of the Tigers and Luis Severino who is on the Cy Young track for the Yankees will be headed to D.C. this year.
Start up your air conditioners, grab a cold drink, and enjoy the All-Star Festivities!