Mid Summer Classic?

I can't remember the time I missed a Home Run Derby, or the Celebrity Softball Game. Sure, the derby takes hours to complete, but what's so bad about that? Why do people and organizations always have to feel so rush when it comes to doing business? Have the TV guys put us on such a schedule that we can't retain things that make people smile?

This year's MLB HR Derby will be half the game it use to be. Only four per side will bat. And to top it off, the the line up isn't even that spectacular. The AL has Two Red Sox, a Yankee, and Bautista. The NL has Two Brewers, a Dodger, and a Cardinal. To his defense, Prince Fielder said he wanted to pick some other guys. I'm pretty sure Ortiz only wanted to pick guys who couldn't beat him.

I've never understood why we mess with tradition. I remember when the Slam Dunk contest didn't have do-overs. I remember when the NHL put North American against the World. We hear the media constantly talking about how we need to change this, and change that, yet in the end, the fans are left scratching their heads, and turning off their TVs.

Dear MLB, please stop messing with things that shouldn't be messed with. Put the rotating World Series schedule back. Put the HR derby roster and selection process back. Please air more than just some of the Celebrity Softball Game.

Not bad, Charlie.

Charlie Furbush made his first MLB start last night. He went 4.2 innings and gave up 3 earned runs. He had a few K's, and looked better than Coke. He ended up with the loss, and couldn't go far into the game, but I think so far its a successful change. He pitched a tough game against a good Angels team, and he did it on their territory. Nice job, Mr. Furbush!

Please #votevictor!

Justin Verlander has launched a #votevictor campaign on twitter. The same type of campaign that launched a much deserving Alex Avila into the starting line up. You can vote for the final spot as many times as you want. Don't forget to also vote for Shane Victorino, this year's NL matchup on the ballot for the Tigers.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/all_star/y2011/fv/ballot.jsp?tcid=nav_mlb_asgballot-FV-2011