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| Albert Pujols was left off of the National League All-Star team for just the second time in his career this season. But, the slugger is hoping for a last second invite to the Midsummer Classic. - Photo courtesy of Getty Images |
Albert Pujols was not named to the All-Star team for just the second time in his Major League career.
Since the rosters were announced, Pujols has been very busy and in the news. He has made a miraculous recovery from a stress fracture in his left wrist, returning to the first place St. Louis Cardinals lineup after spending just 15 days on the disabled list.
Now, Pujols is telling the media that he would like to be at the Midsummer Classic and would accept an invitation if offered to fill-in as a replacement.
Pujols does not quite have the numbers fans are use to seeing from the three-time National League Most Valuable Player. "El Hombre" is hitting just .276 with 46 RBI's entering Thursday's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. His 17 home runs do rank him seventh in the National League despite Pujols spending time on the DL.
Pujols understands why he was left off of the team, but according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the free agent-to-be still wants to be at the All-Star game.
"I said the other day my numbers obviously are not as good as they've been in the past but they're still up there with the top 10 in the league. I can't speak for people. I think those that got chosen to go to the game are having great years and deserve it. But if there was an opportunity, I would be glad to go."Pujols may have a legit beef with not being picked for the All-Star team.
Derek Jeter certainly does not have the type of numbers that make him worthy of starting at shortstop for the American League this year. But Jeter being a part of the game is good for baseball. He is a living legend on the field and not having the man who is about to collect hit number 3,000 would be a shame.
Pujols should be in the same boat as Jeter. He should be on this year's All-Star team despite having a sub-par season by his standards. He is good for the game of baseball.
Plus, the slugger wants to be there.
"I always enjoy being invited to the All-Star Game. People always say, 'Don't you get bored?' Why would you get bored being in the same room with so many superstars? You should enjoy every opportunity you get because you don't know if it will be your last. I don't want to think that way but you know how crazy the game can be. I enjoy every time I go. I never get tired of going."It is refreshing to hear of a super-star that so vocally wants to be involved, even if it might be just a ploy to up his pending free agent status even further.
But Pujols should be at the All-Star game this season because he is one of the games active legends.
Plus, he will give the National League a better chance to win.
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What a shame he wont be there.. lets keep our finger crossed for this "hombre" I love to see him @ the all star game! Please invite him! =)
ReplyDeleteWithout pujols the national league all star team is inadequate.
ReplyDelete