Young Home Run Heroes Take Center Stage Tonight
As I write this, we're just a few hours away from the 2008 Home Run Derby, always a favorite part of the MLB All-Star Game festivities. While much has been made of the absence of any New York Yankees in the contest - and specifically Alex Rodriguez - it's a great chance for fans and baseball collectors to get a look at some of the game's brightest young talent.
Except for Lance Berkman, who is having a career season at age 32, every one of tonight's contestants is under 30. The field includes hot-hitting middle infielders Chase Utley and Dan Uggla, rookie sensation Evan Longoria and last year's NL Rookie of the Year, Ryan Braun. Another player to watch is Josh Hamilton, the one-time phenom who is finally showing his talent after substance abuse problems almost destroyed his career earlier this decade.
A victory tonight won't do much to increase the value of the winner's cards, but it will help shine the spotlight on one of these young stars. If you're looking for another player to collect, all of these guys make great options.