Picking the American League All Stars for Joe Maddon

June 25, 3:48 AMTampa Bay Rays ExaminerRob Quinn

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The Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Phillies are in the midst of a three-game World Series rematch in St. Petersburg. As both Joe Maddon and Charlie Manuel are well aware, one of the benefits of managing your team to the Fall Classic is the privilege of managing your league in the Midsummer Classic. Both Maddon and Manuel need to start thinking about picking their All-Star teams. Since I know Joe Maddon happens to be a very busy guy - having to manage the Rays and all, I figured I’d just go ahead and do it for him.

Here are the ground rules: The eight starting position players are voted in by the fans and the manager of each team then selects 23 more players. Each team must be represented by at least one player. The 32nd player on the team is voted in by the fans among a list of five "last chance" candidates. Typically, the roster will include 12 pitchers and 20 position players. Each manager has the privilege to choose replacements for those selected players who cannot play due to injury.

As of right now, here are the AL starters according to the fan vote:

• 1B – Mark Teixeira, Yankees
• 2B – Ian Kinsler, Rangers
• 3B – Evan Longoria, Rays
• SS – Derek Jeter, Yankees
• C – Joe Mauer, Twins
• OF – Jason Bay, Red Sox
• OF – Ichiro, Mariners
• OF – Josh Hamilton, Rangers (injured)

Here are my selections for reserve infielders – see the slideshow for comments on each player’s qualifications.

• 1B – Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
• 2B – Aaron Hill, Blue Jays
• SS – Jason Bartlett, Rays
• 1B – Justin Morneau, Twins
• 1B – Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox
• 3B – Chone Figgins, Angels

There are so many deserving players; there will definitely be some big-time snubs. Joe Maddon has his work cut out for him.

Move on to part two: Reserve catchers and outfielders

Part three: Starting pitchers

Part four: Relief pitchers

Part five: Final five vote

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