Ryan Braun picked for All-Star Game

Corey Hart was named to the National League all-star team Sunday along with teammates Ryan Braun and Yovani Gallardo. Braun became the first player in club history to be elected to three consecutive All-Star Games, finishing first among all major-league outfielders in fan balloting.

Braun led all major-league outfielders in fan balloting for the third consecutive year with 2,972,525 votes, behind only St. Louis first baseman Albert Pujols (4,380,669) and Philadelphia second baseman Chase Utley (3,616,038) in the NL.

Shortstop Robin Yount was voted to the AL starting squad in 1982 and 1983, the only Brewer so honored in consecutive years until Braun the past two seasons. Despite being in an offensive skid for several weeks, Braun is batting .295 with 23 doubles, 11 homers and 51 RBI.

"It's definitely special," said Braun. "This time of year is one of the few opportunities you have to reflect on where you're at and what you've accomplished. I realize how fortunate I am to be in this position."

A Los Angeles native, Braun said he looked forward to playing in the All-Star Game in nearby Anaheim on July 13.

"Any opportunity I have to get back home is special for me," he said. "I'm excited to get back to the West Coast. I got the chance to play in Angel Stadium for the first time a few weeks ago (in interleague play) and it's a beautiful facility. I'm sure it'll be an incredible game."

And what about the numerous ticket requests that are sure to come from family and friends back home?

"I don't think you can ever get enough tickets for everybody that wants them," said Braun. "You try to get them for as many people as possible because it's an amazing experience. I want to be able to enjoy it with my friends and family."



(jsonline.com)