DETROIT >> The Tigers will have at least be represented by one official starter in the All-Star Game in Cincinnati in nine days, even if they don’t have one on the field.
When Major League Baseball unveiled the voting totals Sunday night, Miguel Cabrera was tabbed the American League’s starting first baseman, even though it’s obvious now he won’t be able to play.
Cabrera went on the disabled list Saturday for the first time in his career, with a Grade 3 strain of his left calf.
It’s the second straight year Cabrera’s been the fan vote choice to start the All-Star Game at first base, and his 10th All-Star selection overall.
The Tigers could still have plenty more representation when the reserves are announced Monday night (7 p.m., ESPN).
Pitcher David Price (8-2, 2.54 ERA) is a good bet to earn his fifth trip to the All-Star Game, while outfielders Yoenis Cespedes (the two-time reigning Home Run Derby champion) and J.D. Martinez, as well as shortstop Jose Iglesias, could be added as reserves by the votes of their peers.
“I don’t know. I don’t really think about that. Obviously it would be nice. It’s awesome. But the most important is this team and getting in that playoff hunt again and trying to get to that October,” Martinez said. “It would be awesome, obviously. It would mean a lot, just for myself, it’s something I always dreamt about making. We’ll see what happens with it but if it does happen, it’s a blessing from God and I give thanks to Him.”
Martinez has hit 10 home runs in his last 49 at-bats, spanning 11 games, giving him 23 on the season. He hit his 23rd on Sept.
He finished Sunday’s game second in the AL in home runs to Albert Pujols, and tied for third in the AL in RBI (56) with Toronto’s Josh Donaldson – the AL starter at third – behind only New York’s Mark Teixeira and Toronto’s Jose Bautista.
His late hot spell could hurt him in the player voting, though his teammates certainly think he’s deserving.
“He’s fantastic. I’ve known J.D. since we were little kids playing Little League. I feel extremely proud and very happy for him because like I said, I’ve known him for a long time and he’s kind of been there kind of through everything,” Alex Avila said. “He played baseball with my cousin, played with my brother as well, so we know each other well. I’m just very proud of him.”
Iglesias entered the week second in the voting among AL shortstops, in itself a feat for a guy that missed all of last season.
“Yeah, it’s pretty special. I take the positive thing about it: I missed a full year last year, with stress fractures, and now all the fans and the people appreciate my job up there, and to be second in the voting is an honor as well,” he said Sunday. “I was really happy when I finished second. Just for the fans to take time to think about it, and vote for me, I just appreciate that.”
Iglesias finished Sunday’s game leading all MLB shortstops in batting average (.323), on-base percentage (.374) and is tied for third in stolen bases (9). Then there is that defense thing he’s got down pretty well.
He’d love to make the All-Star Game, if he can.
“Yes, absolutely. It’s something that, not just me, every baseball player that played, wants to be a part of it. It’s something you can share with your families and friends. It’s like an award for yourself. You represent your team, you represent your organization. I’ve never been, but I hear it’s pretty special,” he said. “I got a chance to make one in Cuba, and it feels pretty good. Represent your organization, and play with the best players in the league. It’s pretty special. It is.”
