MLB All-Star Game Fan Vote Races

Jul 14, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; American League third baseman Brock Holt (26) of the Boston Red Sox, American League outfielder Brett Gardner (11) of the New York Yankees, and American League outfielder J.D. Martinez (28) of the Detroit Tigers celebrate after defeating the National League in the 2015 MLB All Star Game at Great American Ball Park. The American League all stars won 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

The first close race is between National League second basemen, Ben Zobrist and Daniel Murphy. Ben Zobrist has been excellent at second base for the first place Cubs, but Daniel Murphy has also been incredible for the Nationals. Murphy was very impressive during last year’s postseason, which often means signing such a player is dangerous. The Nationals got the opposite effect from Murphy, as he has excelled during his time in Washington.

A majority of Zobrist’s numbers are influenced by the incredible hot streak he had towards the end of May into the beginning of June. He is slashing .298/.410/.460 with 22 extra base hits and a wRC+ of 137 while being incredibly sturdy at 2nd base for the Cubs. Those are certainly All-Star worthy numbers, but let’s take a look at Murphy’s numbers to.

Murphy is currently slashing .349/.391/.577 with 36 extra base hits and a wRC+ of 156. Those numbers are incredibly good, especially from a position that isn’t known for having a player that contributes so much offensively. Murphy has also been consistent at second base, but Zobrist probably has the defensive edge.

Zobrist certainly has a great quality for an All-Star Game player, versatility. However, if we are only considering performance at second base Murphy probably gets the edge. It’s certainly close, and the fans cannot really make the wrong choice here. Murphy’s numbers have been incredible during the first half of the season, but Zobrist has also been very impressive. I give Murphy the slight edge over Zobrist in this contest.

Next: Giants vs. Cards

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