The Cleveland Indians sent 2 representatives to the All-Star game. Justin Masterson did not get the opportunity to pitch. Jason Kipnis did get to enter the game in the 7th inning replacing Boston’s Dustin Pedroia, who came into the game in the first inning for Robinson Cano, who was hit by a pitch. (X-rays were negative.)
In his only at-bat, Kipnis doubled off of Atlanta’s Craig Kimbrel with a runner on third and two outs. One at-bat, one double and one RBI for the Tribe’s second baseman.
Kipnis also made two defensive plays in the game. In the eighth inning, he fielded a ground ball for the first out in Mariano Rivera’s inning of work. He also caught the final pop-fly of Nathan’s save.
In a game that featured no home runs and no dominant performances, Kipnis was certainly a candidate for the MVP award, but that was given to Rivera who was appearing in his last All-Star game. Rivera is retiring at the end of the season.
The last Indian to win the All-Star MVP award was Sandy Alomar for his home run in the 1997 mid-summer classic at then Jacob’s Field.
Since he did not pitch in the game, Justin Masterson could be in line to start Friday’s game. Francona had previously told Masterson he would be moved in order to participate in the game.
[Related: Indians All-Star break review, the starting rotation]