Brandon Beachy should be one of the Atlanta Braves in July's All-Star game.
With the All-Star Game right around the corner and the Braves in contention for a playoff spot, they are in position to be well represented at the Mid-Summer Classic. No team has had more players represented on the All-Star roster than Atlanta has had each of the past 2 years including replacements. Not much has changed last year as they should be well represented. Some of the players are locks to represent the team and others will be hopeful they will make it.
Locks to make the All-Star Game:
Brandon Beachy – Beachy is sure to make the roster barring a huge setback or injury. Beach has been the class of the N.L. Ranking 1st in ERA, 2nd in opponent batting average, and 3rd in WHIP. He has a good shot to be the starter but having only 5 wins on the season will make it difficult for him to be named the starter for the National League
Dan Uggla – Uggla currently leads Brandon Phillips of the Cincinnati Reds in voting for the right to be the starting 2nd basemen. It is well deserved as Uggla is 1st in slugging, on base percentage, home runs, RBIs, and runs among N.L. second basemen. No question, he should be the start for the N.L.
Craig Kimbrell – Kimbrell was initially snubbed last year but was able to fill a roster spot after Matt Cain was unable to play. He will not be a late add this year. The flame thrower leads the N.L. in saves and has a low ERA. Currently, there isn’t a better closer in the league.
Not a lock but should make it:
Michael Bourn – Bourn is 4th in the league in steals, 5th in runs, and 11th in batting average among all National League players. He has surprised most by hitting 6 home runs yet no should be surprised to see him on the field in Kansas City.
Work to do:
Tommy Hanson – Hanson is 8th in the N.L. in wins and has an ERA of 3.55. Hanson will likely have to win a few more games before the rosters are to be unveiled on July 1st or hope to replace a pitcher just before the game.
Long Shots:
Martin Prado – Prado has a high batting average, but has no other stats that make up an All-Star. He is certainly important to the Braves but not a star.
Freddie Freeman – Before Freeman’s eye issues, he was well on his way to being in the Mid-Summer Classic. Freeman is now is likely to get a rest at the break. Joey Votto, Adam LaRoche, and Bryan LaHair are likely ahead of Freeman in the pecking order.
Brian McCann – Before the season started most would have been expected McCann to be an All-Star for the 7th straight year. With Carlos Ruiz, Yadier Molina, and Buster Posey all having good years, the streak likely comes to an end, leaving the Braves’ team leader on the outside looking in.
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