Giancarlo Stanton was named to the 2014 All-Star Game on Sunday and is currently the lone representative for the Miami Marlins.
Stanton was a virtual lock to make the team, the only question was if he'd be voted in by the fans or chosen onto the squad as a reserve. Though he did not make it in via the fan vote, Stanton will start as the designated hitter according to the Miami Herald.
A glance at the statistics would suggest that Stanton should have won a spot in fan voting; which likely played a role in the decision by National League manager Mike Matheny to start Stanton as the DH.
For the season, the Marlins' right-fielder has a slashline of .308/.406/.566 and has 21 home runs to go along with 62 runs batted in. The 24-year old leads all NL hitters in HRs and RBI. Stanton also leads in total bases and is second in SLG, OPS and walks.
Casey McGehee was looked at as a possibility for the team but missed the cut. He could still find himself on the team as a replacement. McGehee is also a candidate on Major League Baseball's "Final Vote" ballot that fans can take part in.
The problem for McGehee is a limited amount of roster spots and low power production. Home runs are not everything but third base is considered a power position. Thus far this season, McGehee only has one home-run. In spite of that however, he has 53 RBI which is good for seventh in the NL.
McGehee also leads all NL hitters with his 108 hits and is pacing NL third basemen with his RBI total. For good measure, McGehee is hitting a robust .320 as well and has served as terrific protection in the lineup for Stanton daily.
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Henderson Alvarez who has enjoyed a wonderful season with a 2.27 E.R.A in 18 starts also did not make the team. Much like McGehee, it is possible that the Marlins' ace is added to the roster as a replacement if one is needed.
This is the second All-Star Game selection for Stanton and he will also participate in the Home Run Derby.
The 2014 MLB All-Star Game will take place on July 15th.
