Numerical Nonsense

.363 – Batting average by Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Freddy Sanchez as of games… .363 – Batting average by Pittsburgh Pirates infielder Freddy Sanchez as of games played through Sunday, which leads the National League. Sanchez will make his first All-Star Game appearance this season in Pittsburgh.

23 – First-time All-Stars who can be found between the National League and American League rosters. The number could increase to 25 if two more first-timers are selected by the fans for the final roster spots.

1.99 – ERA by Minnesota Twins rookie pitcher Francisco Liriano to lead the American League. Liriano, who is 9-1 on the season, was not selected for the All-Star Game, though he could be voted in the final spot by the fans.

22 – The youngest age of any All-Star on the 2006 rosters. Atlanta Braves catcher Brian McCann, Seattle Mariners infielder Jose Lopez and Tampa Bay Devil Rays Scott Kazmir share the age.

28 – Home runs hit by Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard as of games through Sunday to lead the majors. The big lefty will take part in his first home run derby this year during the All-Star festivities.

4 – Former Pittsburgh Pirates – Jason Schmidt, Mark Redman, Bronson Arroyo, Gary Mathews Jr. – who will take part in the All-Star game as members of another team. The number could increase to five if San Diego starter Chris Young is voted in by the fans in the final roster spot.