MINNEAPOLIS -- Despite a strong late push for shortstop Eduardo Nunez's 2016 MLB All-Star Game candidacy by the Twins with their recent #VoteNunez campaign, the Twins are still not represented among the American League's leading vote-getters with the June 30 deadline fast approaching.
Although Nunez does not appear on the ballot because he started the season as a utility backup infielder to Eduardo Escobar at shortstop and Trevor Plouffe at third base, his breakout 2016 has made him not only one of the best hitters on the Twins, but also in the entire American League, and has spurred Minnesota's write-in campaign for their everyday leadoff hitter.
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Nunez, 29, has never appeared in an All-Star Game, but is fifth in the American League in hitting with his .321 average and third in steals with 16. His 33 runs scored and nine home runs are both third among AL shortstops going into Tuesday's games. He also leads the Twins in runs, hits, batting average and stolen bases.
Xander Bogaerts of the Red Sox (2,116,020) currently holds a commanding lead over Alcides Escobar of the Royals (1,150,576) at shortstop, with the Blue Jays' Troy Tulowitzki (814,544), the Rangers' Elvis Andrus (642,180) and the Astros' Carlos Correa (552,670) rounding out the top five.
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 10:59 p.m. CT. 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. Up to five messages. 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, 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, in San Diego, 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.