If Kemp asks, Stanton would say yes to Derby
Marlins slugger yet to hear from NL captain about All-Star event
MLB has named Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp as captain of the National League Derby team. Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano, the defending champion, is captain of the American League squad.
Kemp told MLB Network recently that his first choice to represent the NL is his Dodgers teammate, Andre Ethier. Stanton was the second name Kemp mentioned.
If asked, Stanton would be interested in participating.
"Cool, I'll do it," Stanton said on Wednesday.
As of now, he hasn't heard from Kemp or anyone from Major League Baseball about the Derby.
"There is over a month left," Stanton said. "I'm sure he's got bigger things to worry about right now."
The Derby is scheduled for July 9 at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, the day before the All-Star Game.
Stanton, the Marlins' 22-year-old right fielder, is one of the strongest players in the game. He's already belted a number of mammoth-sized home runs. One of them was a grand slam that knocked out strands of lights on the auxiliary scoreboard in left field at Marlins Park.
Stanton, the NL Player of the Month in May, belted 12 homers and drove in 30 runs in the month.
In the past, Stanton has participated in three home run derbies.
"I'm 0-for-3, when I've been the large favorite," he said.
He came up short in high school and twice at the Minor League levels.
"It's easier said than done," Stanton said.
Stanton isn't too concerned that taking part in the Home Run Derby would mess up his swing.
"A Home Run Derby or going 0-for-5 with three strikeouts," Stanton rationalized when asked about what could hurt his swing.
Marlins manager Ozzie Guillen feels Stanton would be a favorite to win the Derby.
"If he makes contact, yes," Guillen said. "This kid is that strong."
Guillen doesn't think Stanton's swing would be altered if he participated.
"I don't think so," the manager said. "I don't think Stanton is going to care too much about it. Stanton is not going to be the type of guy who studies his swing and breaks down his swing. He should be fine."