Stanton downplays being bypassed for Derby

MIAMI -- Injury prevented Giancarlo Stanton from participating in the 2012 All-Star Game, as well as the Home Run Derby.

In an injury-marred first half, Stanton hasn't posted All-Star-worthy numbers, but his power presence remains one of the best in the game. That's why the Marlins were quietly hopeful the 23-year-old slugger would be selected to the 2013 Chevrolet Home Run Derby, set for next Monday at Citi Field.

But National League Home Run Derby captain David Wright of the Mets made his selections on Monday, and Stanton was bypassed.

"Whatever," Stanton said when asked on Tuesday about not be picked. "On to the next one."

Wright selected Bryce Harper (Nationals), Carlos Gonzalez and Michael Cuddyer (both Rockies) to the NL squad.

It hasn't been a vintage first half for Stanton, who is batting .246 with eight home runs and 22 RBIs. Stanton missed all of May with a strained right hamstring. And in 2012, when he was picked to participate, he underwent right knee surgery the day before the Home Run Derby, which was in Kansas City.

"I told myself, I had to earn the All-Star Game to be in the Derby, which I did last year," Stanton said.

Stanton clearly would have liked to participate, if asked.

Not picking Stanton, according to Miami first baseman Logan Morrison, is a loss for fans and those who enjoy seeing tape-measured home runs.

"I've seen the guy hit homers every day in batting practice," Morrison said. "Obviously, I'd like to have seen him go. Again, the world gets to miss out on what he can really do. I'm not saying any of the other guys aren't worthy. But I've seen how far he hits them. If I could put money on it, and he was in it, I'd bet the farm on him."

Marlins manager Mike Redmond also is partial to his right fielder, especially after Stanton was unable to attend the All-Star festivities a year ago.

"You always feel for a guy that wasn't able to participate and he got hurt," Redmond said. "I'm sure it would have been nice for him to get back there, but at the same time, too, he'd probably say he'd enjoy the break. It's been probably a stressful and taxing time on everyone. He's been banged up.

"The first few months probably didn't go as he anticipated. I think it will be good for everybody to go out there, clear their minds, go out there and relax and get ready for a second-half push."