Dear Mr. La Russa — About the All-Star team…
You need to name two Diamondbacks to the All-Star team.
One is closer Jose Valverde, who has 24 saves, second in the NL. (He would have more if the Diamondbacks would give him more opportunities. But then again, I’m sure he doesn’t mind when the team wins 8-3 like they did yesterday. <grin> He also just became the franchise leader in career saves, reaching that mark (75) his last time out.
The other is Eric Byrnes, who as of Monday morning June 25, is leading the Diamondbacks in the following offensive categories: BA .317; HR 12; RBI 42 (tied with Orlando Hudson); R 47; SB 14; OPS .883; XBH 32; and TB 158.
Additionally, Eric and Hanley Ramirez of Florida are tied for second in the NL in total hits (97).
Last year, Eric Byrnes set a Diamondbacks franchise record for the combination of homers and stolen bases, going 26/25 to lead the team in both categories and become one of only 3 major leaguers to have at least 25 homers and 25 stolen bases last year.
He’s also been known to flash the leather, too:
He’s a Bay Area native, so his fans here would really love to see him play in the All-Star Game in San Francisco.
UPDATE: True Elation 10: Eric Byrnes got two singles and drove in 2 runs as the Diamondbacks beat the Orioles 8 – 3 to take the series two games to one. The Snakes are now on top of the NL West.
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Doesn’t Eric help out with Mr. La Russa’s ARF fundraisers during the off season? So, not only does Eric deserve to be on the AS roster by reason of merit, but it would also be a nice way to say “thanks” to him.
Tiebreaker.
I’m voting for him in all my ballots. So he can play with Barry Bonds, and probably Barry Zito.
We love him here, even if he does have “issues” with us.
I intend on asking him specifically what issues, and with whom, when he comes to town Friday.
K, I’ll be waving in my boys on the 2nd Street side of the building. Eric comes in on the other side, if you want to catch him on the way in. He gets to the park very early, as you’d expect.
I’ll bring Scott Hairston’s purple windbreaker for you to wear. Remember, the seat we are in are perfect for posting a sign, so bring one for Byrnes.
Pat, it’s a good thing Byrnes doesn’t volunteer with la Russa’s fundraising for ballet . .. although I’d love to see him in a pair of tights, the boy can’t dance a step.
Just finished voting for the All-Star Game. I don’t think I’ll go to the park THAT early, as I have other things to do. Will aim to get there at 5 — with a sign.
Have you guys seen the ad for the All Star Game yet? Very cool… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoMDKLFKEuk
That IS Cool.