Atlanta Braves: who’s an All-Star?
By James Kunkle
Could a change in the All-Star voting system help out the the Atlanta Braves and get more of their roster into the mid-summer showcase?
Voting is typically well under way by this time of year for the annual Major League all star game. However, the rules have changed (again) this year: voting will be conducted differently, and at a later time. This could serve to benefit the Atlanta Braves.
This year there will be an “election day” where fans will vote on each position from a group of 3 finalists that have been determined by a select committee.
Personally, I like this better because let’s face it, some players were getting snubbed by the old system.
Let’s take a look at four Atlanta Braves players who should be All-Stars this year.
4. Freddie Freeman
The leader of the Braves will assuredly become a 4X all star this summer barring an injury of some sort. Freddie Freeman is putting together another fine outstanding season so far.
Mostly due to his red hot production over the last 7 to 10 games, Freddie is actually on pace to surpass his numbers from his 2018 season when he finished 4th in MVP Voting.
The question with Freddie is, will he be the starter? I’m not 100% certain which position MLB will have Cody Bellinger listed at. I will admit if he is listed as a 1B, then he deserves the spot over Freeman.
If not though, Freddie in my eyes should be listed as the starter for the NL at First Base even over the Pirates Josh Bell.
Obviously one advantage that Freddie will have is we all know how large and wide Braves country is, and I am sure the votes will be coming out in full force. Other players who could be on the vote include Pete Alonso, Anthony Rizzo, and Rhys Hoskins.