Central
The Cincinnati Reds were recognized with three all-stars when the National and American league teams were announced. That’s two less than the Cardinals, who trail the Reds by two games in the NL Central standings.
The Reds have won seven of their last 10 and the Cardinals split a four game series with the Brewers.
Cincinnati will be represented at the all-star game by reliever Arthur Rhodes as well as Brandon Phillips and Scott Rolen.
St. Louis’ Yadier Molina and Albert Pujols were named starters on the National League team. Pitchers Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright were named to the team in addition to Matt Holliday.
Other NL Central representatives include Milwaukee’s Ryan Braun (starter), Yovani Gallardo and Corey Hart; Pittsburgh’s Evan Meek; Houston’s Michael Bourn; and Chicago’s Marlon Byrd.
The NL Central’s 14 all-stars is best among NL divisions.
West
With eight all-star selections, the NL West had the fewest in the league.
The Padres, who lead the West with a National League best 49-33 record, received only one all-star recognition.
First baseman Adrian Gonzalez will represent San Diego as a reserve.
The second placed Dodgers will send Andre Eithier (starter) and Jonathan Broxton. Colorado’s Ubaldo Jimenez was named to the team. The Rockies’ Troy Tulowitzki was named an all-star but will not play.
San Francisco pitchers Tim Lincecum and Brian Wilson will represent the Giants while Chris Young will be Arizona’s lone representative.
East
The Atlanta Braves tied the Cardinals for the most all-star selections with five. Outfielder Jason Heyward was voted a starter for the Braves and second baseman Martin Prado will replace Chase Utley as the starter. Tim Hudson, Brian McCann and Omar Infate will also represent Atlanta at the all-star game.
Utley was voted a starter for the Phillies but is unable to play due to injury. Pitcher Roy Halladay and Ryan Howard will also represent Philly.
Other NL East players include David Wright (starter) and Jose Reyes (replacement player) of the Mets; Josh Johnson and Hanley Ramirez (starter) of the Marlins; and Matt Capps of the Nationals.
Rookie phenom Stephen Strasburg was not included on the NL Roster despite his 2.45 ERA and 53 strikeouts in six starts.
Weekly Top-5
Atlanta – The team to beat in a top-to-bottom talented division.
San Diego – Best record in the NL.
Cincinnati – Done doubting this team.
New York – Only two games back of Atlanta.
St. Louis – The Cardinals and their five all-stars could make a big second half push.
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