Beltran to weigh oblique issue over HR Derby
Cardinals slugger would consider invitation to All-Star event on July 15
ST. LOUIS -- As Carlos Beltran spoke on Saturday about being selected to his eighth All-Star Game, he was asked to consider another looming possibility: Would he be interested in another go at the Chevrolet Home Run Derby on July 15 at Citi Field?
Beltran, a first-time participant in the 2012 Derby, would seem a natural candidate for consideration again. His 19 home runs are fifth-most in the National League, and his former Mets teammate, David Wright, has been assigned the duty of picking the other three NL representatives.
But Beltran, citing recent right oblique discomfort, sounded lukewarm on the idea.
"Last year, I did it and had a good time," Beltran said. "I don't know. I have to see how I feel when that moment comes and if I'm approached by the guys making those choices. There are a lot of guys in front of me that are also having a good year and hitting a lot of homers."
Beltran advanced to the second round of the Derby last year before being eliminated. He hit 12 home runs in all.
Beltran said his oblique has been nagging him since the team's series in Oakland last weekend. He does not expect the issue to keep him from participating in the 84th All-Star Game on July 16 at Citi Field.