Is Strasburg an All-Star?

So as we near closer to the July 13th mid-summer classic, the ballots have been cast for the American and National League All-Stars. Many names called are the ones that everyone expects. Jeter, Pujols, Ramierez, Sabathia and others. Other names may be confusing such as Omar Infante or perhaps Chris Young. However, the biggest question may well be whether or not Stephen Strasburg should be an All-Star. His numbers would suggest the easy answer is yes. To date, he is 2-2 with a 2.45. Even more impressive, he has recorded 53 punch outs in just over 36 innings and only walked 10. His star appeal and fan following would also indicate that he would be an easy choice. Strasburg is one of the most googled names in Major League Baseball. Tickets to Nationals park are still selling out for his starts. If he were to pitch in the All-star game, he would undoubtedly increase the popularity of an already famous event.

However.... I do not believe Steven Strasburg should be an All-Star. It isn't because I don't think he is good enough. Clearly, thus far, he has proven so as mentioned above. However, there are many unwritten rules and unsaid guidelines that govern how rookies are treated and how priority and tenure plays in a big league clubhouse. Granted, I've never been in a Major League clubhouse for more than a spring training game, I have played with enough current big leaguers to know that young ball players are expected to earn their place in the League. Of course, all players want to win at all costs. However, it is still a career and a job and Stephen's place on an All-Star roster will take the place of many other guys would have, at the very the least, pitched the whole season instead of a couple starts. Guys like Carl Pavano and Joel Pinero whom have been around the league for a few years and are beginning to have years that are worthy of all-star recognition.

Also, the All-star game is no longer just an exhibition game. Instead, it is played for home field advantage in the World Series. Allowing a rookie with little experience to make the All-star game because he would bring more fans to the stadium is irresponsible. I don't really think the All-star game is hurting for fans to begin with. So if it counts for something more than bragging rights now (which it does), then I say TV ratings shouldn't factor into the selection process.

Finally, young ball players just need to pay their dues somewhere. I agree the Strasburg is good enough to be an All-Star. I agree he's one of the most electric pitchers in the game today. However, he only spent 2 months in the minors and he is already touted as the next coming of Nolan Ryan. If his character is how it is described (a true gamer), than an all-star skip this year will only make him hungrier for the second half and the pennant run.

Let me know if you agree...

Until Next Time!!