Washington Nationals: Predicting the home team all-stars
By Blake Finney
Is Bryce Harper’s slump going to stop him?
Despite a .232 batting average, Bryce Harper appears on the verge of a breakout at the plate. But will this low average be a factor in the all-star voting?
It will affect him a little, but even if he only raises his average a little he should still make the cut as a starter. He’s the joint-leader in the majors for home runs, and leads the league in walks. So even a small boost in AVG will put him in the top 10 in most hitting categories.
With A.J. Pollock injured and Giancarlo Stanton now in the junior circuit, there’s two less star-studded outfielders to compete with. This makes the pool thinner than you may think.
And if we’re being honest, as long as you’re statistics are good enough when you’re already an established superstar, you’ll keep getting the votes. So expect Harper to take his regular place in right field at Nationals Park for the big day on July 17th.
He also intends to partake in the Home Run Derby the day before too, for the first time in five years. The last time he took part in 2013, he lost in the final to then Oakland Athletics outfielder Yoenis Cespedes.
But in his home stadium he may be able to go one step further and take home the crown this time. And we should also look forward to seeing Bryce Harper starting in right field the next day too.