Slugger Shavings 2056.2 - All-Star Fever

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The All-Star voting was counted and Louisville fans were thrilled to see two of their own make the team. Though the team currently sits at 42-46 and six games behind the last wildcard spot, the happiness around the park was obvious.

No surprise that six-time all-star Jeffrey Smith returns to the game, cashing a $220K bonus in the process. Far and away GM BP's best free agent signing in his brief tenure at Louisville, Smith has racked up very impressive offensive numbers as the team's DH. He is in the fourth year of a six-year/$81M deal that has seen the slugger hit is 500th career home run (last season) and his 3000th career hit (this season). The 37-year-old Smith doesn't appear to be slowing down, hitting .301/16/60 with overall numbers consistent with prior seasons. The fans love him and for good reason.

It was finally time for former first-round pick Taylor Michaels to get an all-star nod. The 29-year-old defensive catcher has put up decent offensive numbers in his short career, though last season saw him hit below .200 with many expecting Michaels to be traded. Instead of trading him or letting him file for free agency, GM BP surprised many with a five-year/$57M extension. That extension looks like a good move so far with Michaels having his best offensive year (.277/10/26) to go with his superb defense. Fans are hoping this gives Michaels a big confidence boost that will pay dividends for the team in the next few years.