By Mike Santa Barbara The Phils lead off man and part time Nostradamus may be leading the way at the Short Stop position for the upcoming All-Star game but he doesn't deserve it.
Philly fans almost always "get it right," when it comes to things like voting deserving players into the All-Star game. However, the "World Series Boost," may have something to do with Jimmy receiving in most people's minds some unwarranted votes.
Not only should Jimmy not be the starter for the All-Star game he shouldn't be on the All-Star team period. I could do what a lot of other people have done and give you some stats to back it up, but if your a Phillies fan you need no stats. You have seen it with your own eyes almost all season long.
Rollins has hit for a consistently low average, has not hit well in big spots and has continued to be the opposite of what a lead off hitter should be.
Ever since Rollins took on the lead off role for the Fightins' almost everyone knew he wasn't your typical lead off hitter. And his approach at the plate so far this season has cost the Phils some games. He's too aggressive and doesn't see enough pitches and he knows it. I'm not one of these guys who thinks you should always look at the first pitch but that doesn't mean plate discipline is thrown out the window.
Now make no mistake Rollins will go if voted in by the fans. Not going isn't an option, everyone should know and understand that. When it comes to fan voting like it or not it's not a "who deserves to be there competition," it's a popularity contest. I suppose in a weird way we should all be happy to see JRoll starting in the All-Star Game regardless if he deserves it or not. After all we've been the step-child of the New York's, the LA's, the Boston's and the Chicago's for too long.
However, our mentality isn't that of the cities I have listed above. Which is why there has been so much talk about whether or not Rollins deserves to be the starter for the All-Star Game.
One thing that can be said for sure is that Jimmy will be motivated by all of this. Whenever Rollins is doubted or criticized he always lands on his feet proving all wrong and completely redeeming himself.
Jimmy's a true competitor and leader, he's truly a Philly guy. Which is why I wouldn't be surprised to see Jimmy put on a show at this years All-Star game, maybe even win the MVP. And I wouldn't be surprised to see it carry over to the second half of the MLB season and perhaps lead the Phils back to the World Series again.
