Oakland Athletics: Ranking the most likely All-Star candidates
1. 3B Matt Chapman
This one is obvious and not in the least bit shocking. It is more than likely that third baseman Matt Chapman will be in the All-Star Game, whether as the sole member of the Athletics or with another teammate or two.
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For some mind-blowing reason, Chapman finished seventh in starter voting among AL third basemen. This is incredibly puzzling given how good Chapman has been this season and before that.
“Chappy” has a Gold Glove, a Platinum Glove, and was named the Wilson Overall Defensive Player of the Year last season. If he keeps playing the way he has this season, there is no way that he won’t receive at least one of these honors again.
He’s currently hitting .266 with 18 home runs and 43 RBI. Just last Thursday night, his walk-off 3-run home run gave the A’s a comeback victory over the Tampa Bay Rays.
Chapman had the following to say when he learned he was not voted into the top-three in starter voting.
"“I understand some of those other teams might have the advantage with fan votes and things like that. “I’m just happy to be up here with my teammates and winning. An All-Star Game would be amazing, but that’s out of my control.”"
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Here’s to hoping Chappy and his Gold Glove make the trip to Cleveland.