MLB All-Star Game: Each team’s worst All-Star selections ever
Chicago White Sox – Pat Kelly (1973)
Corner outfielders are often thought to provide some sort of pop with the bat. However, you can overlook that a bit when you need to fulfill the one player from each team rule.
Pat Kelly was just such a recipient of that honor when he was selected for the 1973 American League All-Star roster, replacing fellow White Sox player Dick Allen when Allen was injured and unable to take part. Kelly had authored a serviceable batting line, hitting .291/.367/.368 and driving in 27 during the season’s first half. However, Kelly’s selection was perhaps more dubious due to the fact that teammate Bill Melton was omitted in his favor. Melton, who had represented the team in in 1971, had been much more impressive during the first half by hitting .299/.384/.490 with 14 home runs and 60 RBI at third base.
Kelly’s honor was more of coincidence. The injury to Allen set it up and the fact that 1973 American League team was set with three stellar third basemen in Brooks Robinson, Buddy Bell, and Sal Bando. With a need in the outfield, A.L. manager Dick Williams took the one player he needed for the game.
Kelly did see some time in the game, getting one hitless at-bat. It would be his only visit to the game in a career that lasted 15 seasons, but it was undoubtedly the highlight. Sometimes the worst selections aren’t always poor choices, but rather necessities. For one night, Pat Kelly filled those shoes admirably.
Next: Cincinnati Reds - Gus Bell (1957)