Asdrubal Cabrera and Chris Perez make AL All-Star team (UPDATED)
CINCINNATI (AP) — Indians shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera and closer Chris Perez were picked by other major-leaguers for reserve roles on the American League All-Star team. It’s the first time for both players.
They got news of their selections before the final game of a series against the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday. Cabrera was getting ready for the game, while Perez was on his way back from attending his grandmother’s funeral in Florida.
“I just say thank you to everybody,” Cabrera said.
Cabrera has been the most consistent hitter in the Tribe’s offense, while Perez has been nearly flawless in a bullpen that is one of the team’s strengths. The Indians have been one of the majors’ biggest surprises this season, leading the AL Central.
Last year, starter Fausto Carmona was Cleveland’s lone All-Star representative. He has lost 10 games this season and went on the 15-day disabled list before Sunday’s game with a strained right thigh.
“It’s a credit to the major-league scouts and the front office, to bring in two All-Stars who have a chance for this to be not the last time for them,” Manager Manny Acta said.
Cabrera came to Cleveland in the 2006 trade that sent Eduardo Perez to Seattle. The 25-year-old switch-hitter was batting .294 with a career-high 14 homers and 49 RBI heading into Sunday’s game. He led American League shortstops in hits, runs, doubles, homers and RBI.
Cabrera finished second to Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter in the fan voting for shortstop. Jeter got 4.5 million votes, while Cabrera had 4.07 million.
“What Asdrubal has done this year is nothing short of All-Star caliber,” Acta said. “He’s been a big part of stabilizing our lineup, that’s for sure. He’s been our best hitter from day one. He’s a good defensive player, too.”
The 14 homers are the biggest breakthrough. Cabrera came into the season with a total of 18 career homers and decided to try to hit for more power. He’s been surprised by his home run total.
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