All Star Snooze Fest
By Seth Everett
As I write this, it is Monday night and the Home Run Derby is on. That's a switch for me, as for most of the last decade, I was there. I covered the Derby from 2001-2009, and now I find myself constantly searching for the remote as the "drama" simply isn't there.
I don't think I'm alone in saying I would rather enjoy a week of Phillies baseball as opposed to this game in which 18 players pulled out. There are controversies about whether or not the game should count for home field advantage. I believe that the game is nothing more than a big commercial for MLB, and thus, an exhibition. I don't mind the fan vote. There is nothing wrong with every team being represented. But to say that the 84 All-Stars make up the best baseball has to offer, than frankly the sports is misguided.
There has been some controversy about Derek Jeter not attending. He just was coronated for his 3,000th career hit, and Yahoo reported he's suffering from exhaustion. Exhaustion? Try doing 20 minutes on WIP with Howard Eskin, now that's exhaustion!
Roy Halladay has been named the starter for the NL Team. Its funny how fans I've spoken to aren't honored by this announcement, they are worried that Roy is pitching innings that could put his health at risk. I'm mildly concerned, but more so, let's just have a clean, injury-free all-star game. And yes, the NL winning would be a good thing for Philadelphia.
It should be noted that while many all-stars are being criticized for not attending, all five Phillies are there, even though only two can play. Placido Polanco, Cole Hamels, & Shane Victorino, will wear Phillies pinstripes tonight during the ceremony. The ceremony is actually the best part of the whole evening.
On Tuesday, Seth talked All-Star Baseball with Eskin & Reese on WIP Tuesday afternoon. Listen to the audio below:
