Colorado Rockies: Mark Reynolds talks All-Star ballot absence

Mark Reynolds of the Colorado Rockies is having an All-Star type of season. Considering he was signed to a minor league contract before the season began by the Rockies, it’s amazing to think how far the 33-year-old’s season has pivoted since that fateful February day.

Entering Saturday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Coors Field, Reynolds was hitting .315 with 13 homers and 42 RBI. The 13 round-trippers included a 458-foot monster blast on Friday night that broke the team home run tie with Nolan Arenado while his 42 RBI trail only the 44 logged by Charlie Blackmon.

It’s a solid season that could be considered for a spot in the All-Star Game in Miami. However, if you go to fill out a ballot, you won’t find Reynolds on the list of possibilities from which you can choose.

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Reynolds has never made an All-Star team and it seems that he won’t get there through the fan vote (although the Rockies and fans have started a #BeLikeMark and #WriteMarkIn campaign). Reynolds, however, isn’t worried about the ballot or any voting.

"“It’s predetermined by the club,” Reynolds shrugged as he talked to Rox Pile. “Ian (Desmond) was signed to be the first baseman and that’s what they did. There are multiple ways to make All-Star teams. Player vote, when you get voted in by the players, I think is a bigger honor.“To be honest with you, I’m not even really worried about it. Four days off from baseball with my family and at my house is a lot more relaxing than four days in Miami dealing with the headache of the All-Star Game. It doesn’t really matter to me either way.”"

With a 162-game batting average of .237, Reynolds has proven this season how his game has evolved over his 11 years in Major League Baseball. He’s walking at a higher rate than he has in the last five seasons and he’s striking out less than he ever has in his career. Check out some of the stats that Reynolds has amassed this season by reading this article.

There is plenty of competition for the All-Star first base spot this season. Washington’s Ryan Zimmerman is having a monster year. Arizona’s Paul Goldschmidt not only kills the Rockies, but is hammering plenty of other teams as well in 2017. Of course, Chicago Cubs fans will push hard for Anthony Rizzo to once again earn the starting nod.

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A tough field and invisible listing on the ballot may keep Reynolds from making it to Miami. However, as long as he keeps contributing to Colorado’s surging season and the Rockies keep winning, Reynolds will take that over a trip to South Florida any time.