MLB All-Star Game has tough act following HR Derby

The Midsummer Classic is finally here, and with it comes big shoes to fill following Giancarlo Stanton’s HR Derby-winning 61 dingers on Monday night.

As is often the case for managers of the MLB All-Star Game, it’s a difficult balance setting lineups for what’s supposed to be an exhibition that also carries the weight of the winning league snatching home field advantage in the World Series.

Mets skipper Terry Collins, leading the charge for the National League, would tell you no different.

“As a process, I don’t wish it on anybody,” Collins said on MLB Network Radio. “It’s the greatest players in the world, I can put them in a hat and pull them out and have a good lineup.”

His starting lineup consists of four Cubs – Anthony Rizzo, Ben Zobrist, Addison Russell and Kris Bryant – as well as All-Star favorites Bryce Harper and Buster Posey. Collins gives Johnny Cueto the nod to start the game on the pitching mound.

On the American League side, Royals manager Ned Yost has decided to start White Sox ace Chris Sale. He explained his decision on MLB Network Radio.

“He’s just banging strikes with three above-average pitches and unfortunately for us we get to see him a lot in our division so I know how good he is,” Yost said.

Along with Jose Altuve, Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, Eric Hosmer and more, perrenial All Star Mike Trout will be starting on the AL side. He talked with MLB Network Radio about what it’ll mean to play alongside legend David Ortiz in his “final” All-Star Game.

“He says he’s retiring next year but I don’t think so,” Trout said. Nevertheless, the Angels slugger said he’s happy to get to spend time with Big Papi. “I see him twice during the season but I don’t get to spend time with him or talk to him.”

The festivities begin Tuesday, July 12 at 8 p.m. ET.

Which club are you taking in tonight’s #MLB #ASG? @AllStarGame

— SiriusXM Sports (@SiriusXMSports) July 12, 2016

Catch all of the All-Star action on SiriusXM MLB Network Radio, Ch. 209!