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MLB All-Star Game: American League lineup predictions

By Nathaniel Reeves

Nov 1, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez (13) reacts after hitting a single in the 12th inning against the New York Mets in game five of the World Series at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez (13) reacts after hitting a single in the 12th inning against the New York Mets in game five of the World Series at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 26, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) tips his cap to the fans after his second three-run home run of the game against the Detroit Tigers during the seventh inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 26, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz (34) tips his cap to the fans after his second three-run home run of the game against the Detroit Tigers during the seventh inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /

Designated Hitter

Starter: David Ortiz, Boston Red Sox.

A rule change in 2011 ensured that the designated hitter will play in All-Star games in NL parks and that the AL starter would be determined by fan voting rather than the manager. As Ortiz embarks on his farewell tour, there should be no doubt he’ll dominate the fan voting and be the starting designated hitter in San Diego.

Ortiz’s numbers alone may warrant a starting nod anyway as he continues to be very productive at the plate late in his career. Somehow, the 40-year-old has avoided any age-related decline, posting no worse than a 134 wRC+ since 2009 per FanGraphs, although he has missed the last two All-Star Games.

Once again, Ortiz is headed towards a 30-homer season after announcing his intentions to retire in the winter. Ortiz is batting .275/.405/.625 through 49 plate appearances, a 189 wRC+ pace.

We’ve seen so many great moments from players such as Mariano Rivera and Derek Jeter in their final All-Star Games over the past few seasons, and Ortiz could be the next to provide such a memory. It would not be a surprise if Ortiz even challenges Donaldson or Trout for the top overall vote-getter crown.

Reserves: Nelson Cruz, Seattle Mariners.

Last year’s DH starter is off to another excellent start at the plate despite slugging only two home runs so far, and has the best chance to be Seattle’s representative in the Midsummer Classic.

Next: Starting Pitcher

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