Anthony Rizzo wins NL final vote, makes first All-Star Game
Anthony Rizzo is headed to the All-Star Game after all as the Chicago Cubs first baseman won the National League final vote, according to Carrie Muskat.
Rizzo was a candidate to make the squad when the rosters were announced on Sunday, but saw Starlin Castro named to the roster as the Cubs representative for the Midsummer Classic instead of the slugging first baseman.
After the rosters were named, Rizzo was one of five candidates on the final vote with Casey McGehee, Justin Upton, Anthony Rendon and Justin Morneau as his fate was in the hands of the fans.
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The Cubs fans responded in droves as they texted their support, voted online and through twitter with #VoteRizzo flooding timelines across the country.
Rizzo took the lead from Morneau late on Wednesday but had to hold off the Colorado Rockies first baseman who would have been making a homecoming to Minnesota where he began his career with the Twins.
Rizzo is second in the National League with 20 home runs and his gold glove defense at first base is one reason why Cubs fans are optimistic about the future with their All-Star first baseman and Castro as the faces of the rebuilding effort at Wrigley Field.
With one more spot left on the National League Home Run Derby squad, maybe team captain, Troy Tulowitzki, will name Rizzo to the team and he can add that to his resume in addition to All-Star.
Chicago White Sox starter Chris Sale won the American League final vote.