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07/06: Could Mariano Rivera Start the All-Star Game?
Posted by: Patrick
         
Peter Abraham pitches the idea of Mo starting the All-Star game, in an open letter to Terry Francona.
Here's an idea that would make the game even more special: Name Mariano Rivera the starting pitcher for the American League. Yes, we know, Rivera is a closer. But he also has been the best pitcher in the American League for more than a decade now. Here is an opportunity for his greatness to be recognized at his home ballpark in front of a worldwide audience. ... What's in it for you as manager of the rival Red Sox? Glad you asked. After Rivera starts, you can use your guy Jonathan Papelbon as the closer. Papelbon is happy, Boston is happy and you win the game. It's a win for everybody. You become the classy Boston manager who recognized the legendary Yankee. The New York fans get to cheer as Rivera warms up to "Enter Sandman," and it's can't-miss television for Fox. There is no downside to this. You'll be an example of good sportsmanship across the country. I'd be surprised if it happens, but it's an intriguing idea. There's a good part of me that would like to see Mariano in his element: closing out a close victory for the American League. Judging by the past 20 years or so, the odds would seem to be in the American League's favor, as the team has gone 16-3-1 in the last 20 All-Star games and 10-0-1 in the last 11. But, what if that doesn't happen? Surely, Francona will get Mariano into the game for an out or, more likely, for an inning - even in a losing effort. What would you rather see: Mariano start the game and throw one inning or Mariano close out a losing effort? How about this one: Mariano starting or Mariano closing out a winning effort? Tough call. If he starts, then he starts and we know where he'll be - but, if he doesn't, he'll still pitch most likely, but the situation is up in the air. I wouldn't be adverse to him starting, but I'd still lean toward him closing. CommentsCarissa Brown wrote:
Here's the thing Mo right now is tied with 3 saves in an all-star game. Wouldn't it not be more impressive if Mo breaks the record of save in an all-star game on his own terf?
07/07 14:52:17
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Moises Young Diaz wrote: