Belle Prompts A.L. To Mull Rules Changes

The American League is considering making some All-Star Game events mandatory for players after Albert Belle skipped a workout and wouldn’t appear in a team photo this year in Cleveland.

The league is looking into rule changes that would allow them to take disciplinary action against players who don’t show up for some All-Star Game events. The discussions also were prompted by Belle’s actions that included missing batting practice, as well as turning down an opportunity to start in left field.

Any rule change has to be approved by the Major League Baseball Players Association. If baseball does, the players union said it won’t allow any changes - as long as they’re being made because of Belle.