Tribe features blend of talent on All-Star ballot

DETROIT -- Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor finished as the runner-up to Astros shortstop Carlos Correa in balloting for the American League Rookie of the Year Award last season. For years to come, there will likely be a debate over which of the two should start in the All-Star Game.
On Sunday, the 2016 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Ballot was officially unveiled by Major League Baseball, giving Lindor his first shot at cracking the AL's roster for the Midsummer Classic in San Diego, presented by MasterCard. Correa stands out due to his power and run production. Lindor offers defensive wizardry and an all-around offensive threat. Watching how fans vote for the shortstop position in the AL will certainly be interesting to follow.
Beyond Lindor, Cleveland's All-Star options this year include first baseman Mike Napoli, second baseman Jason Kipnis, third baseman Juan Uribe, catcher Yan Gomes, designated hitter Carlos Santana and outfielders Michael Brantley, Rajai Davis and Tyler Naquin.
Kipnis -- a two-time All-Star -- was Cleveland's lone representative at the All-Star Game last year and is off to a strong start this season for the Indians, too. Brantley (an All-Star in 2014) will have an uphill battle in balloting, considering he has started the season on the disabled list while rehabbing a right shoulder injury. Lindor and Gomes are worthy of consideration at their respective positions, while Napoli and Davis have enjoyed solid showings out of the gate for the Tribe, too.
Browsing the ballot
The other side: In the National League, it's hard not to be impressed by what Cubs outfielder Dexter Fowler has done so far. Heading into Sunday's action, Fowler was second to only Washington's Bryce Harper in OPS in the Senior Circuit.
Tip of the cap: Outfielder Colby Rasmus has opened some eyes with his strong start for the Astros. He's currently near the top of the AL charts in a variety of offensive categories, including home runs, RBIs, and both on-base and slugging percentage.
A rising star: Keep an eye on outfielder Christian Yelich of the Marlins. He does not have the household name recognition yet, but the .396/.529/.585 slash line he carried into Sunday was eye-popping. Yelich has been a doubles machine and currently has more walks than strikeouts for Miami.
Fans can cast their votes for starters at MLB.com and all 30 club sites -- on their computers, tablets and smartphones -- exclusively online using the 2016 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Ballot until Thursday, June 30, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Vote up to five times in any 24-hour period for a maximum of 35 times.
Fans may also receive the ballot by texting VOTE to 89269 (USA) or 101010 (Canada). Or text VOTA for a ballot in Spanish. Message and data rates may apply. Up to five messages. No purchase required. Reply STOP to cancel. Reply HELP for info.
Following the announcement of the 2016 All-Stars, be sure to return to MLB.com and cast your 2016 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Final Vote for the final player on each league's All-Star roster. On Tuesday, July 12, watch the 2016 All-Star Game presented by MasterCard live on FOX, and during the game visit MLB.com to submit your choice for the Ted Williams Most Valuable Player Award presented by Chevrolet via the 2016 MLB All-Star Game MVP Vote.
The 87th All-Star Game will be televised nationally by FOX, in Canada by Rogers Sportsnet and RDS, and worldwide by partners in more than 160 countries via MLB International's independent feed. ESPN Radio and ESPN Radio Deportes will provide national radio coverage of the All-Star Game. MLB.com, MLB Network and SiriusXM will also provide comprehensive All-Star Week coverage. For more information, please visit allstargame.com.