Josh Hamilton Dominates A.L. All-Star Balloting

Major League Baseball has released the latest American League All-Star voting, presented here for your enjoyment ...

First Base
Prince Fielder, Tigers: 1,421,786
Paul Konerko, White Sox: 1,147,089
Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 991,075
Mitch Moreland, Rangers: 852,091
Albert Pujols, Angels: 707,779

This one’s probably in the bag, already. What’s most surprising is Albert Pujols’s relatively weak showing. Certainly, his performance doesn’t merit a higher spot but the fans often pay little attention to performance.

Second Base
Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 1,920,364
Robinson Cano, Yankees: 1,732,359
Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 1,037,522
Robert Andino, Orioles: 402,083
Jason Kipnis, Indians: 357,651

Based on the results at first base and second base -- along with every position -- we may assume the Rangers are a) drawing a lot of fans this season, and b) doing a great job of getting the vote out. Shoot, if we’re not careful it’ll be an All-Rangers lineup. Which would make for a pretty good team, but probably not the best of all possible teams.

Third Base
Adrian Beltre, Rangers: 1,634,057
Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 1,313,063
Evan Longoria, Rays: 1,061,901
Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 927,163
Mike Moustakas, Royals: 548,936

Shortstop
Derek Jeter, Yankees: 2,419,508
Elvis Andrus, Rangers: 1,448,544
J.J. Hardy, Orioles: 663,042
Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians: 514,741
Alcides Escobar, Royals: 493,947

Of course, Jeter’s actually enjoying a fantastic season. Nothing wrong with one last All-Star Game.

Catcher
Mike Napoli, Rangers: 1,640,160
Joe Mauer, Twins: 912,997
Matt Wieters, Orioles: 904,425
A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox: 733,282
Russell Martin, Yankees: 602,983

Another position, another Texas Rangers. Matt Wieters has been the league’s best catcher this season.

Designated Hitter
David Ortiz, Red Sox: 1,758,369
Michael Young, Rangers: 1,396,802
Raul Ibañez, Yankees: 752,884
Adam Dunn, White Sox: 645,213
Billy Butler, Royals: 617,368

Hamilton’s exactly where he belongs, and Granderson’s having a great year too. Looks like a great battle for that third outfield spot, though.