Nationals All Star Preview

American League vs National League

8:15 PM

FOX

Okay so it's not really a series preview, but here's a breakdown of what to expect from our all stars tonight:

Stephen Strasburg:
As we've all heard by now Matt Cain, and not R.A. Dickey will be the National League starter.  Cain will probably be allowed to go 2 or maybe even 3 innings before being replaced by Dickey.  R.A. should be allowed to throw 1 or 2 innings as well since most people expected him to get the start.

What that means for Strasburg is a relief appearance in the 4th, 5th, or 6th inning.  With all the pitchers on the roster, he won't get more than 1 inning of work.  However, as one of the bigger names on the roster its pretty much a lock we will be seeing him before the game is over.

Gio Gonzalez:
Gio Gonzalez's position is a bit more precarious.  Assuming Cain, Dickey, and Strasburg are all locks to get into the game, there goes at least 3 to 4 innings minimum.  That leaves guys like Kershaw, Hamels, and Gio all vying for those coveted innings, in addition to all the relievers at the game. 

IF LaRussa is really committed to trying to get all his guys in we might see Gio make a late inning appearance, but it is likely he might end up being one of those pitchers who is held out in case of extra innings.  As crazy as it sounds with the year he is having, Gio might not get into the game.  Lets hope not.

Bryce Harper:
MLB would be crazy not to get Harper into this game some way some how.  Carlos Gonzalez, Melky Cabrera, Ryan Braun, and Carlos Beltran are all in the starting lineup.  That leaves Andrew McCutchen as the most likely first outfielder to be subbed in.  You also have to figure LaRussa will make sure Matt Holiday gets a chance to play some innings.

Harpers All-Star Shoes (Via @DarrenRovell)

After those guys, you got a handful of players left who will need playing time.  Look for Harper to get into the game around the 6th or 7th inning.

Sound of the Game:  There couldn't be any other song for this occasion.  Enjoy the All Star Game everybody.






Prediction Time:

• National League WINS by the score of 7-5.