When the American League All-Stars come to bat in the bottom of the first inning in tomorrow night’s game, it will be a special moment. New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter will be the leadoff hitter in what will be his final All-Star Game.
Jeter, who announced that 2014 will be his final season in February, was a popular selection to start the game at shortstop. AL manager John Farrell decided having him leadoff would be proper way to pay tribute.
"[It's a way] to celebrate a player who's not only a champion but a guy that sets the bar that I think all players should aspire to -- the way he's handled himself with class, with performance, no doubt a Hall of Famer," said Farrell, reports MLB.com.
Jeter will be reunited with former teammate Robinson Cano, who will be making the start at second base and representing the Seattle Mariners. Cano will hit third.
In between them in the lineup will by Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels.
Batting cleanup is former Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera of the Detroit Tigers. He is followed by Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Jose Bautista.
Hitting sixth will be Nelson Cruz of the Baltimore Orioles. His second in the Majors in both home runs (28) and RBI (74), according to the MLB statistical leaders on ESPN.com. He will be followed by teammate Adam Jones.
Josh Donaldson of the Oakland A’s will hit eighth, and Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez will bat ninth.
The All-Star Game is set to begin at 8 p.m. tomorrow night on FOX.