2009 MLB All-Star Roster Reflection

Here we are, about 80 games into the 2009 MLB season and the all-star teams have been announced. There are a few things to note: Albert Pujols earned the most votes, collecting 5,397,374 votes to make him second all-time behind Ken Griffey Jr.'s six million (1994). Pujols is leading the MLB with 31 homeruns and 82 RBIs. The guy is an absolute animal. Not to mention, as of right now, he has no relation to steroids (crossing my fingers). Pujols is having a monster season and will get to enjoy playing the all-star game infront of his home crowd, in St. Louis.

Aside from Pujols, there are a few other shoe-ins for the all-star game. A few familiar faces such as Derek Jeter, Ichiro Suzuki, Chase Utley, Carlos Beltran and Johan Santana will all be participating. While these guys are all assumed to be all-stars for obvious reasons, there are two all-star talents that didn't make this year's cut. Alex Rodriguez and Manny Ramirez, both 12-time all-stars, will not be part of the 80th annual game. Ramirez missed 50 games because of his suspension for violating the league's drug policy (Manny, how could you?) and A-Rod missed time following his hip surgery. Next Tuesday's game will be interesting without the two, but should still be entertaining nonetheless.