DETROIT — Justin Morneau will miss the All-Star Game because of a concussion.
The Twins’ slugging first baseman withdrew from the Midsummer Classic on Saturday, following a doctor’s advice, and will return to Minnesota to rest during the break.
Morneau didn’t play Saturday, missing his third straight game, and won’t be in the lineup for the series finale against the Tigers today.
“If I can’t play for my team, I’m not going to be playing for the American League,” he said.
The White Sox’s Paul Konerko, who began the day batting .299 with 20 home runs and 62 RBIs, will replace Morneau.
Home run contestants set
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Major League Baseball announced that Steve Swisher of the Yankees and Chris Young of the Diamondbacks will take part in the all-star home run derby.
Swisher will join Miguel Cabrera, David Ortiz and Vernon Wells on the AL side. Young will be with Matt Holliday, Corey Hart and Hanley Ramirez for the NL.
Footnotes.
Newly acquired Justin Smoak reported to the Mariners, and the team has optioned left-handed pitcher Luke French, a Heritage High School graduate, to Triple-A Tacoma to clear a spot on the 25-man roster.
• Justin Maxwell was recalled by the Nationals from Triple-A and started in center field against the Giants.
• The Indians designated catcher Mike Redmond for assignment and recalled catcher Chris Gimenez from Triple-A.
• The Orioles recalled right-hander Chris Tillman, who started against the Rangers, from Triple-A Norfolk.
• Shortstop Jose Reyes will miss the All-Star Game with a sore left side after departing from the Mets’ loss to the Braves.
