Sandberg touts Papelbon as #ASGWorthy
With no players among top vote-getters, Phils manager also pushes for Hamels, Harang and Galvis
CINCINNATI -- Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg knows exactly for whom he would cast his 2015 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Ballot.
During a pregame All-Star discussion Tuesday, Sandberg mentioned pitchers Jonathan Papelbon, Cole Hamels and Aaron Harang as well as shortstop Freddy Galvis as Phillies who should be considered. But, Sandberg noted, Papelbon can make a particularly strong case.
"He has been our most consistent performer, day in and day out doing his job," Sandberg said. "You look at what he's done with those opportunities and the quality of them ... if you look at it that way, he's a strong candidate for us."
Papelbon has a 1.13 ERA in 24 games and was 12-for-12 in save opportunities entering Tuesday night's game against the Reds. Philadelphia's all-time saves leader has converted 28 of 29 chances since last July 24.
Video: Papelbon on becoming franchise all-time saves leader
Closers on struggling teams must often battle an irregular workload. Sandberg said Papelbon has been a true professional about making sure that battle doesn't have an unfavorable outcome.
"He communicates that to us," Sandberg said. "There are times when he might sit five, six days depending on how the games go. He knows when he needs fine-tuning, when he needs an outing."
Papelbon came into Tuesday needing four saves to tie Rollie Fingers (341) for the No. 12 spot on the all-time list.
No Phillies player is among the highest vote-getters in MLB.com's third National League All-Star voting update.
Fans can cast their votes for starters at MLB.com and all 30 club sites -- on their computers, tablets and smartphones -- using the 2015 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Ballot until Thursday, July 2, at 11:59 p.m. ET. For the first time, voting is exclusively online, where fans may submit up to 35 ballots.
Fans may also receive the ballot by texting VOTE to 89269 (USA) or 101010 (Canada). Or text VOTA for a ballot in Spanish. Message and data rates may apply. Up to five messages. No purchase required. Reply STOP to cancel. Reply HELP for info.
Following the announcement of the 2015 All-Stars, be sure to return to MLB.com and cast your 2015 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Final Vote for the final player for each league's All-Star roster. On Tuesday, July 14, watch the 2015 All-Star Game live on FOX, and during the game visit MLB.com to submit your choice for the Ted Williams Most Valuable Player Award presented by Chevrolet via the 2015 MLB All-Star Game MVP Vote.
MLB.com will provide extensive online coverage of All-Star Week festivities.
The 86th All-Star Game will be televised nationally by FOX, in Canada by Rogers Sportsnet and RDS, and worldwide by partners in more than 200 countries via MLB International's independent feed. ESPN Radio and ESPN Radio Deportes will provide national radio coverage of the All-Star Game. MLB Network and SiriusXM will also provide comprehensive All-Star Week coverage. For more information, please visit allstargame.com.