Choo Only Indian Deserving of All-Star Nod (For Now)

Online balloting for the All-Star Game went live recently and fans can now vote for the ASG starters, as they could in years past. And most likely, as in years past, fans will screw at least one deserving player out of a roster spot because they voted in some big name having a crappy season. I really hate fan voting. I’m not prepared to reveal my proposal on how to improve the All-Star Game (July 13^th is a ways off), I will say I really hate fans voting the starters. I’m cool with fans voting in the final player, but that’s about it.

Anyways, while I highly doubt there will be any ballot stuffing by Tribe fans ala 1998. Nor should there be. Mike Redmond will not be going to Anaheim, since the All-Star game is mostly about offensive numbers, no one gives a damn how well he’s handled the Tribe staff. No one cares about the Redmond Effect. He will also not be there because he’s Mike Redmond and has a .211 OBP.

No, the only Indians player Tribe fans should vote for in good conscience is OF Shin-Soo Choo.

The AL Player of the Week last week, Choo has been the only consistent Indian on offense. Although his defense has been shaky, Choo has been chugging along, with 4 home runs, .464 OBP, 1.123 OPS and 3 stolen bases.

I wrote earlier in the season that I thought the Indians would only have 1 All-Star, and that it would be Grady Sizemore. Well while two weeks doesn’t guarantee an All-Star appearance, I still think the Indians will have only one representative, but right now it’s looking like that rep will be Shin-Soo Choo.

Finally, Mat Germain of Fansided’s terrific Call to the Pen has a very informative write-up of Indians pitching prospect TJ House. I’ll admit to not being too familiar with House, but after reading this glowing review of his skills, I must admit I’m a little excited. Be sure to check it out.