Black Sox Beat Writer
Chicago Sports Online
Three members of the Chicago Black Sox were selected to play in the 2042 BBA All-Star Game in Louisville – and one made a surprise start.
First baseman Mark Simpson was chosen to play in his 7th All-Star Game, and was informed shortly before the game began that he would be in the starting lineup for the Frick League, even though he made the team as a reserve.
Simpson said he was given no explanation for the move, but was gratified nonetheless.
Mark Simpson
Rocky Wattson
Hao Hang
Simpson was joined on the team by two other Black Sox, both making their first appearances as All-Stars: second baseman Rocky Wattson, and outfielder Hao Hang.
“Hey, it was cool to go down and hang with the guys and play a little ball,” Wattson said. “It was a blast – I’d love to do that every year.”
Wattson, who was named as a reserve, was 0 for 1 with a walk and a strikeout, no runs and no RBIs.
Hang, also selected as a reserve, was his usual modest self in describing the experience.
“I felt a little like an imposter,” he said. “I mean there were all these huge stars, and then me. It was a great experience, but I still feel like someone must have made a clerical error.”
Hang entered the game as a pinch hitter in the 5th inning and played left field. He went 1-2 with a single.
Meanwhile, Simpson - who played first base until the 5th inning - was 1-2 with a double, no runs and no RBIs.
“I hope to be back next season, too,” Simpson said. “Eight-time All-Star has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?”