NEW YORK — The All-Star Game brought goose bumps, endless sacrifice bunts and Aaron Cook’s David Blaine act. Because of the time, place and moment, it was arguably the best Midsummer Classic ever. And David Wright and J.D. Drew didn’t even pitch. While memories of the evening will linger, it’s time to look forward to baseball’s second half and the best story lines.
Is this the Cubs’ year?
That outrageous question didn’t faze pitcher Ryan Dempster at the All-Star Game. He was asked what makes this team different than the Cubs’ previous 100 models. He smiled and talked about pitching depth. The Cubs are for real. They have the best one-two-three punch in baseball with Carlos Zambrano, Dempster and Rich Harden, and a patient offense.
Rays of sunshine
These Rays have gone from baby steps to moonwalking. Tampa Bay, which has never won more than 70 games in a season, isn’t going away. The Rays pitch too well, owning a staff 3.79 ERA. And they are looking at possibly adding the Rockies’ Brian Fuentes to their bullpen.
Can someone call a doctor?
It’s hard not to see the Red Sox as favorites to repeat as World Series champions. Unless, that is, slugger David Ortiz doesn’t come back from his wrist injury. That might be the only way to derail Boston. The Red Sox are prepared to make a run at acquiring a big bat just in case, such as Mark Teixeira or Jason Bay.
Paper or plastic?
The winner of the National League West will be easy to recognize. It will be the team in the corner with a bag over its head. It’s hard to believe this division could be this bad, but it looks like the first team to 83 wins is the champion.
Broken dreams
Instant replay appears all but certain to be added late in the season, or the postseason, to help umpires on home run calls. Also worth watching is baseball’s recommendation on maple bats. The safety committee should have a conclusion within a month and might recommend outlawing maple bats.
