Life in the Minors- Chapter 9: The New York-Penn League All-Star Game

 The rest of the Cyclones were extremely excited for their fellow teammates. First baseman Jeremy Vasquez said the team was proud of them for representing Brooklyn and the New York Mets organization. He also thought it is an honor for Medina and Rasquin to be named to the All-Star Game in such a great league.

Jose Medina and Walter Rasquin made the team for one reason and one reason only- they outplayed their competition day in and day out. Having guys on the team that can play at an elite level everyday is a huge boost for any team. Left handed pitcher Kurtis Horne affirmed that having All-Star caliber players on the team helps a lot and he also was happy that they made the team.

On Wednesday, Medina and Rasquin didn’t arrive back to Brooklyn in time for batting practice. They did arrive, however, in time for their game against Aberdeen. Infielder Matt Winaker couldn’t wait to get a chance to talk to them about their experience in Troy. He also assumed their time in Upstate New York was an incredible experience.

            Coincidently, Mets All-Star pitcher Matt Harvey has been on a rehab assignment with the Cyclones for the past week. The Mini-Mets have made sure Harvey feels welcome in the clubhouse, while at the same time letting him maintain his routine. Pitcher Kurtis Horne thought it was cool to have the presence of Harvey in the clubhouse. Horne enjoyed observing Harvey’s everyday routine the most to see how he prepares for starts. 

            Overall, being an All-Star is something no player should take for granted. For the players who didn’t make it to the New York-Penn League All-Star Game, getting snubbed should motivate them to work even harder and make it next year. 

Hudson Valley Renegades

by Jon DeBaro

An annual New York Penn League tradition, the All-Star Game was held this past week in Troy, NY. Hudson Valley was well represented with six Renegades earning the right to represent their team in the big game. Getting the All-Star nod is an encouraging boost to a player’s journey to the major leagues. For players who weren’t quite as fortunate to receive this year’s honor, the snub serves as a humbling reminder of the grind to reach an elite level on the field.

While players earn the All-Star selection with their individual skills, they remain grateful of the recognition from the voters and appreciative of the support from their teammates. Renegades Pitcher, Mikey York, was especially excited to share the experience with his fellow All-Star teammates. The honor also means the accomplishment of a preseason goal for Mikey. Hudson Valley infielder, Taylor Walls, while left off the All-Star team this year, will also make earning All-Star honors a primary goal moving forward.

While the All-Star break offers a chance for some serious reflection on the season so far, players still try to find time to have some fun with the experience. All-Star pitcher Drew Strotman expressed his excitement for the home run derby and couldn’t wait to check out the concert at the game.

The Renegades lucky enough to make the trip to Tri-Valley were given a tremendous opportunity to showcase their talents and make the most of the experience. For players trying to reach the major leagues, earning an All-Star selection is an honor everyone wants on their resumé.