All-Star break offers players rare respite

SEATTLE -- There is no player who does not benefit from the four-day All-Star break, even those heating up as the first half ends.

"If people have experienced this, especially from a player's perspective, the grind of the season, it's insane," manager Mike Scioscia said. "It's been like that for 130 years. It's just the way it is.

"Travel is becoming more and more complicated, especially on the West Coast. These guys need a break. Any time it comes, it's definitely important to these player to mentally exhale a little bit. Then get back for what we hope will be a pennant race."

The same can be said on the other side of the diamond. Mariners manager Eric Wedge echoed the sentiment.

"Everyone needs it. It's a long season," Wedge said. "It's a combination of mental and physical. Depending on who you are, you need one more than the other."