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Marcell Ozuna: 2017 All-Star Game starter
Marcell Ozuna has been nothing short of spectacular throughout the first half of the season for the Miami Marlins. On Sunday, his efforts were recognized.
Coming into Sunday’s game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Marcell Ozuna was batting .312 with 20 homeruns and 55 RBI’s. His offensive numbers have not only been the best amongst Miami Marlins players, but among the best in baseball. They are finally being noticed around the baseball world.
Entering the final week of All-Star Game voting, Ozuna was in a tight race for the final outfield spot in the starting lineup. With Chicago Cubs’ Jason Heyward and Ben Zobrist for the both within striking distance to start for National League.
On Sunday, Ozuna’s incredible first half got even better. He was voted in by the fans to start the 2017 MLB All Star Game in his home ballpark, which is even more special.
Many times in the past, the All-Star Game voting was basically a popularity contest. Occasionally, the fans vote for the popular players and end up making the right choice. But there have been times where a player is voted in to start the All-Star Game because of past accomplishments and not their present results.
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In this year’s voting the fans seem to have gotten it right. Ozuna has easily been one of the top outfielders in all of baseball. He’s been more worthy of starting the ASG than Ben Zobrist and Jason Heyward and his production proves that.
Winning despite a popularity deficit
He’s not a player that is as poplar as a Bryce Harper, or even Miami Marlins teammate Giancarlo Stanton. But his continuous production this season has rewarded him and has opened the eyes of MLB fans on the star player that he’s become.
On Sunday, Ozuna led the Marlins to a 10-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers. He crushed two homeruns, which gives him a total of 22 this season. That puts him in 3rd place in the National League. He’s also tied for 6th in the NL with 59 RBI’s. His .316 average is good for 7th in the NL.
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On July 11, 2017, Ozuna will realize how much his hard work has payed off. He will be the starting left fielder for the National League in the game that showcases the best players in the world.
Marlins fans have been able to appreciate the ball player that Marcell has become. But now, baseball fans around the world can begin to see what Ozuna brings to the ball field. A player with game changing talent, he’ll continue to gain respect from the baseball world.