All Star Weekend 09

This week was a big one for Major League Baseball. I think. Considering how many fans were in the stadium and the seemingly common attitude of time flies when nothing is on TV, it doesn't seem as if the all star game mattered. But wait, it does. The MLB in their infinite wisdom made sure this, like the previous 5, determined what league gets home field in the World Series. (As if a record isn't good enough) Sure the futures game is ok, the home run derby still proves than guys off the juice, Prince Fielder, can hit the ball farther than guys on it, Alex Rodriguez, and who doesnt like watching celebrities embarrass themselves on national television. And not because they try to play baseball with Hall of Famers, but because they play softball that makes an 8 yr olds coach pitch league look like the Olympics. Anyway, though the house that Albert built was full of enthusiastic (yet few) fans and a gracious city whose backdrop is comparable to some of the best scenery in the U.S., they still made it seem too important. That's why I don't like the idea of it determining home field, in one of the worlds more traditionally entertaining and player deserving opportunity, it has now become about politics, money, and overly competitive meaning. I mean how else would you explain Manny almost making it in, Brandon Inge getting into the derby, and Victor Martinez being intentionally walked in a game they lost anyway. The most exciting thing for fans though was seeing someone throw a first pitch and actually making to the plate without hitting umpires or a backstop, and oh yeah the extra security at the stadium. The shortest All Star game in over 20 years and one of the ten shortest in MLB history, the only one without a home run, and one of four to have an MVP who didn't even drive in a run, boring and sports are two word I try to separate as much as possible, but there is no other word. Baseball is slowly dwindling away in the minds of the everyday fan. Let's hope Selig or someone can bring the umf back to the game that we once had, before its too late. Help us Bud Selig, You're our only hope. (Scary thought) - Nick