Choosing the Final 2006 All-Star: American League
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by user Timothy Moreland(Bball3345)
For the fifth year, fans are allowed to vote for the 32nd and final American and National League roster spots. The manager of their respective League's team, chooses five guys who the fans can choose between.
The Candidates
First Base Travis Hafner: It seems like a crime that Ozzie Guillen could not find a spot for the American League's best hitter this year. With a .312/.453/.631 line, only Pujols can claim a better showing with the bat. The only obstacle standing in the way of Hafner and an All-Star selection is his defense. He has only played four games this year in the field. Still, David Ortiz has only played six games in the field, while not being nearly as good with the bat, and is starting in the game.
Catcher Ramon Hernandez: Hernandez is one of two catchers. He does not stack up well to Hafner; however, I would have chosen him over the starter, Ivan Rodriguez. Hernandez has a higher OBP with more power than Pudge. While Pudge does have the advantage over any catcher on defense, Hernandez has been above average in this facet of the game too.
Catcher A.J. Pierzynski: Pierzynki actually has a stronger OBP(.371) than Hernandez(.341); however, Hernandez wins when it comes to power(15 HRs to 5 HRs). Overall, Pierzynski lags behind Hernandez by a slight margin on offense, and a slight margin on defense. It would not make sense to select Hernandez before Pierzynski.
Starting Pitcher Francisco Liriano: While Hafner may be the best hitter in the league, Liriano is second only to his teammate, and All-Star, Johan Santana for the title of best pitcher in the league. Now that he qualifies, Liriano's 1.99 ERA leads the majors. He is striking out over a batter per inning with good control. His ERA may be aided by pitching somewhat low-leverage innings from the bullpen earlier this year, but his dominance in the starting rotation proves this guy is for real.
Starting Pitcher Justin Verlander: Here is another great rookie pitcher who deserves to be on the All-Star squad. Verlander has a 3.13 ERA in 103.7 innings. Unfortunately, Mark Redman, and his ERA over 5.00, is blocking Verlander and Liriano from making the team.
The Final Selection
1. Hafner
2. Liriano
3. Verlander
4. Hernandez
5. Pierzynski
Date
Mon 07/03/06, 6:28 am EST
