All-Star Game
In response to this column on ESPN I wrote: First off, forget the attendance and record requirements. Baseball is a team sport, but this is the one game each year that should be based only on individual performance.
First, take the player at each position with the best individual stats. Next, let the fans vote. (After all, the game is for us.) That way you have the best players and the fan favorites on the roster. Then let the managers pick up who they might need without restriction to position.
Finally, let the sportswriters pick a rookie "future star" for each league. Someone who is deserving such as Rocco Baldelli or Dontrelle Willis. They or another player may not necessarily play. After all, it's the selection that is the honor.
Make it 35 players and no team guaranteed a representative. If an owner wants his team announced at the game...he can get off his lazy butt and develop an all-star player.
PS: If a player announces he can't stay for the whole game...drop him and choose someone worthy.
