The first round of MLB All-Star Game fan voting came out today, and the Chicago Cubs – popular as they are – fare quite well here at the start, despite performances that leave fans wanting.
The Cubs have three leaders, at present:
Outfielder @Bharper3407 of the @Nationals leads the NL in fan balloting for the 2017 @AllStarGame. Vote now at https://t.co/qd5OOxn7ED pic.twitter.com/SdPsLKdClg
— MLB Communications (@MLB_PR) May 30, 2017
Anthony Rizzo heads up the first base crew, and, although he’s had a deep slump this year, his performance of late is looking increasingly All-Star worthy. That first base group is so freaking crowded, though, even with an injured Freddie Freeman. Consider that Joey Votto (.282/.409/.554) isn’t even in the top five.
Kris Bryant has a healthy lead at third base, which is fair. Nolan Arenado will always get plenty of deserved support, but Bryant’s going to be the starter at third base.
The Cubs are in second place at both middle infield spots because Cubs fans are dedicated and good at clicking.
The outfield is the most interesting group, with three Cubs in spots three through five. Jason Heyward has been a near league-average bat, but he continues to excel on defense and has been bit incredibly hard by the bad luck hard contact bug. Obviously there are a number of deserving outfielders behind the Cubs’ group, but then, voting is a fan service after all.
Without a continued push from here, I’m not sure Heyward actually winds up in All-Star position when balloting ends June 29. Voting is taking place here.