Adam Jones paraded around in a bullpen cart to get Ketel Marte into the All-Star Game
As anyone who has worked on a political campaign will tell you, few things are as important as getting "boots on the ground." Sure, the candidate has to have a compelling personality and good ideas, but none of that really matters if you can't get anyone out to cast a vote for her.
D-backs outfielder Adam Jones clearly understands the value of grassroots campaigning. Second baseman Ketel Marte was the only Diamondback to make it through to the final round of All-Star voting -- so, with ballots open until 4 p.m. ET Thursday, Jones grabbed a bullpen cart and took a morning ride around the environs of Chase Field to make sure the base was energized and ready to turn out at the polls.
#VoteKetel
— 10 (@SimplyAJ10) June 26, 2019
Vote at https://t.co/p8NuhDwQs9 and Google “Ketel Marte” then hit submit pic.twitter.com/O5lvl4Wvkm
Independent of Jones' help, Marte is a strong candidate. He entered Wednesday hitting .314 with a career-best 20 home runs while leading the National League with 99 hits. But, like a former president making campaign stops for a current candidate, Jones' status as a five-time All-Star could be the factor that puts Marte over the top.
And, if Jones' commitment to brave the 100-degree weather to get out the vote didn't convince you, at least listen to the kid with the megaphone. He knows what's up.
Eric Chesterton is a writer for MLB.com. He is an appreciator of the stolen base, the bunt against the shift and nearly every unconventional uniform design. He eagerly awaits Jamie Moyer's inevitable comeback.
