CLEVELAND -- The latest American League All-Star ballot results were released on Tuesday and, amazingly, Rays third baseman Evan Longoria isn't in the top five among third basemen.
"I think it's very unfortunate, he's an All-Star as far as we're concerned," Rays manager Kevin Cash said. "I don't even think I need to pull up other third basemen's numbers in this league. I know what his are, and they're awesome. Really good."
Rays fans will need to get busy if Longoria is to have a chance of getting voted in to the game. Currently, he's on pace to have the top power year of his career and one of his best seasons in recent years, and he has seemingly found his groove.
No other Rays were listed among the leading vote-getters. Only the top five at each position (and top 15 outfielders) have been released.
Fans can cast their votes for starters at MLB.com and all 30 club sites -- on their computers, tablets and smartphones -- exclusively online using the 2016 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Ballot until Thursday, June 30, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Vote up to five times in any 24-hour period for a maximum of 35 times.
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, with a maximum of up to five messages and no purchase required. Reply STOP to cancel. Reply HELP for info.
Following the announcement of the 2016 All-Stars, be sure to return to MLB.com and cast your 2016 Esurance MLB All-Star Game Final Vote for the final player on each league's All-Star roster. On Tuesday, July 12, at Petco Park in San Diego, watch the 2016 All-Star Game presented by MasterCard 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 2016 MLB All-Star Game MVP Vote.
The 87th All-Star Game will be televised nationally by FOX, in Canada by Rogers Sportsnet and RDS, and worldwide by partners in more than 160 countries via MLB International's independent feed. ESPN Radio and ESPN Radio Deportes will provide national radio coverage of the All-Star Game. MLB.com, MLB Network and SiriusXM will also provide comprehensive All-Star Week coverage. For more information, please visit allstargame.com.
Longoria entered Tuesday night's action hitting .278 with 18 home runs and 43 RBIs, which are all team highs.