The biggest controversy seems to be that Royals CF Lorenzo Cain, who has displayed his defensive skill throughout the postseason, was not a finalist in the American League. By the eye test, and by most advanced metrics, Cain clearly is among the three best center fielders in the league.
SPORTING NEWS MLB AWARDS 2014: AL All-Star Team | NL All-Star Team
In any event, winners will be announced on Nov. 4.
Here are the finalists:
American League
C: Alex Avila, Tigers; Yan Gomes, Indians; Salvador Perez, Royals 1B: Eric Hosmer, Royals; Miguel Cabrera, Tigers; Albert Pujols, Angels 2B: Robinson Cano, Mariners; Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox; Ian Kinsler, Tigers 3B: Josh Donaldson, A’s; Adrian Beltre, Rangers; Kyle Seager, Mariners SS: Alcides Escobar, Royals; J.J. Hardy, Orioles; Alexei Ramirez, White Sox LF: Alex Gordon, Royals; Michael Brantley, Indians; Yoenis Cespedes, A’s/Red Sox CF: Adam Jones, Orioles; Adam Eaton, White Sox; Jackie Bradley Jr., Red Sox RF: Kole Calhoun, Angels; Kevin Kiermaier, Rays; Nick Markakis, Orioles P: Mark Buehrle, Blue Jays; Felix Hernandez, Mariners; Dallas Keuchel, Astros
National League
C: Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers; Russell Martin, Pirates; Yadier Molina, Cardinals 1B: Adrian Gonzalez, Dodgers; Justin Morneau, Rockies; Adam LaRoche, Nationals 2B: D.J. LeMahieu, Rockies; Brandon Phillips, Reds; Chase Utley, Phillies 3B: Nolan Arenado, Rockies; Juan Uribe, Dodgers; Pablo Sandoval, Giants SS: Zack Cozart, Reds; Adeiny Hechavarria, Marlins; Andrelton Simmons, Braves LF: Justin Upton, Braves; Starling Marte, Pirates; Christian Yelich, Mariners CF: Billy Hamilton, Reds; Denard Span, Nationals; Juan Lagares, Mets RF: Jason Heyward, Braves; Gerardo Parra, D-backs/Brewers; Giancarlo Stanton, Marlins P: Zack Greinke, Dodgers; Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers; Adam Wainwright, Cardinals
