Colorado Rockies: Nolan Arenado on his favorite part of the All-Star Game

Nolan Arenado of the Colorado Rockies will be starting his second consecutive Major League Baseball All-Star Game and taking part in his fourth straight Midsummer Classic. He’s had some time to not only experience what it’s like to be recognized as one of the best players in the game today, but also hang out with others who are considered some of the best at their positions as well.

Arenado was voted in as the starter by the fans after putting together yet another phenomenal season at the plate and more highlight-reel-worthy plays in the field. Heading into Tuesday’s series opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Coors Field, the 27-year-old Arenado has put together a slash line of .305/.388/.583 along with a .907 OPS. He’s hit 22 homers and driven in 63 runs in 84 games.

When I asked Arenado about what he enjoys most about the All-Star Game after Sunday’s series finale in Seattle, it was little surprise that he mentioned the camaraderie he shares with the other players. Well known as a student of the game and one of the most diligent when it comes to practice and honing his craft, Arenado enjoys learning from others and simply talking baseball.

“I really enjoy it. I really enjoy those days. I really like hanging out,” Arenado said. “I don’t like going home from the field at the All-Star Game. I like to just stay there all day and talk to those guys and hang out with them. It’s an amazing time.”

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There are some who scoff at the All-Star Game as “just an exhibition game.” However, it’s clear that the players enjoy their time with their colleagues. Arenado even said it’s a time when he can let his guard down and be a little more relaxed when he takes the field.

“My first year, I was a little nervous because it was my first year and there were guys there who had done it I don’t know how many times,” Arenado said. “I’m going to enjoy it like I have the last four years and kind of lower my guard in a way because everyone else is too. We’re just enjoying each other so it’s a really amazing time.”

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The 2018 MLB All-Star Game will take place in Washington, D.C., at Nationals Park on July 17 at 6 p.m. (Mountain time). It will be televised on FOX.