Davis tops fan vote
Baltimore slugger Chris Davis powered past Detroit’s Miguel Cabrera in the final week to claim the most fan votes in All-Star game balloting, and Washington outfielder Bryce Harper used a surge to win a spot in the National League’s lineup.
Right-hander Max Scherzer was one of a major league-best six Tigers chosen for the All-Star game July 16 at Citi Field in New York. St. Louis catcher Yadier Molina led the N.L. fan vote announced Saturday night. He is one of the Cardinals’ five All-Stars, tops in the N.L.
“I think any time you are getting that recognition not only from your fan base but from everybody across the nation, I think it feels good to know that people are watching,” Davis said.
Mets ace Matt Harvey and third baseman David Wright will represent the host team in the 84th All-Star game. Harvey received the most votes among N.L. pitchers in the player balloting, outpacing the Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw.
Cuban defector Yasiel Puig wasn’t picked – not yet, at least. The Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder with just one breathless month in the big leagues is among five candidates for the final N.L. spot, with fans able to vote online through Thursday.
New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera was one of the 68 players selected. The 43-year-old career saves leader will hop across town as part of his retirement tour for a 13th All-Star appearance, second-most by a pitcher behind Hall of Famer Warren Spahn, who made 17 teams.
“The fact that I went through all the adversity and I’m standing here talking about the All-Star game … it’s a privilege,” said Rivera, who has 29 saves this year after missing nearly all of last season with a torn knee ligament.
Clearing the bases
Philadelphia placed 1B Ryan Howard on the 15-day disabled list due to left knee inflammation. Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro said Howard would have an MRI. … St. Louis C Yadier Molina was sent for medical tests for a knee injury and did not play Saturday. Manager Mike Matheny said the knee began bothering Molina on Friday night. … The New York Yankees reinstated SS Eduardo Nunez from the 60-day disabled list and put him in the starting lineup Saturday. … The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired RHP Ricky Nolasco from the Miami Marlins on Saturday in exchange for three minor league pitchers.