2004 NL All-Stars
The Washington Post
Tuesday, July 13, 2004, Page D4
Catcher Mike Piazza
Why he's an all-star: He worked as hard as anyone during the first half of the season, catching and playing first base and taking only two days off.
All-star highlight: Won the MVP in 1996.
Appearances: 10 First base Albert Pujols
Why he's an all-star: Baseball's best young hitter continues to earn the seven-year, $100 million contract he signed during the offseason.
All-star highlight: His only career hit -- a single in 2003 -- drove in a run.
Appearances: three Second base Jeff Kent
Why he's an all-star: Aside from driving in 52 runs, he has continued to speak boldly about baseball's steroid problems. Last month, he suggested that former players might have used steroids even more than contemporary players.
All-star highlight: He doubled in 2001.
Appearances: four Third base Scott Rolen
Why he's an all-star: He has the lofty .342 batting average, sure. But he also is one of the best base runners and perhaps the best defensive third baseman.
All-star highlight: He singled and scored in 2003.
Appearances: three Shortstop Edgar Renteria
Why he's an all-star: Because he plays in the National League. Even though he has won Gold Gloves the last two seasons, he is probably the third-best shortstop starting in the All-Star Game, behind Jeter and Rodriguez.
All-star highlight: He's 0 for 5 in all-star games, but scored a run in 1998.
Appearances: four Outfield Barry Bonds
Why he's an all-star: Making his 13th all-star appearance, Bonds has yet to show any sign of his age (39) as he chases Henry Aaron's record of 755 homers.
All-star highlight: Hit a home run in 2002 game, and Torii Hunter robbed him of another.
Appearances: 13 Outfield Lance Berkman
Why he's an all-star: He moves up to start with Ken Griffey Jr. injured. Berkman is hitting .299 with 16 home runs.
All-star highlight: Two-run single in the seventh inning in 2002 gave NL a 7-6 lead.
Appearances: two Outfield Sammy Sosa
Why he's an all-star: Usually known for power numbers, Sosa has yet to make a fielding error this season.
All-star highlight: Still waiting. He is 1 for 11.
Appearances: seven
© 2004 The Washington Post Company | 
