McCann doesn't play, but relishes All-Star experience

CHICAGO -- Brian McCann didn't get into the All-Star Game, but he'll certainly remember it for a long time.

McCann, who filled in for injured Braves teammate Freddie Freeman, said he enjoyed the entire experience -- from socializing with other players to being on the field when Mariano Rivera made his memorable entrance for the American League in the eighth inning.

"I think what makes those games is sitting in the clubhouse talking to the guys you play against every day," McCann said. "[Rivera's entrance was] just another moment that I'll never forget. I think in 20 years I'll look back and when they play that moment over and over, it'll be more special than it is right now, just because his legend will grow. He's by far the best closer of all time and people put him up there as one of the best pitchers to ever pitch, so it was definitely a cool moment."

McCann started to get hot in weeks leading up to the break, hitting .410 with five home runs, six doubles and 15 RBIs in his previous 16 games. He doesn't sound concerned about the break cooling him off.

"We had a workout [in Chicago on Thursday] and I feel as good as I did before," he said. "I'm excited about this second half."