T.R.’s Memoirs: Rangers have had big All-Star moments, except during two critical seasons (Part II)

(AP photo/Bill Kostroun)

Editor’s note: T.R. Sullivan covered the Texas Rangers over 32 years for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and MLB.com and is sharing his “memoirs” with this newsletter.

In the latest installment, Sullivan goes over the history of the Rangers in the All-Star Game, beginning with a memorable game-winning home and ending with perhaps the most memorable Home Run Derby in the history of the event.

Carl Everett began the season with the Rangers and was hitting .274 with 18 home runs and 51 RBIs through 74 games. Then, on July 1, he was traded to the White Sox for pitchers Frank Francisco and Josh Rupe, and outfielder Anthony Webster. Less than a week later, Everett was selected as the backup designated hitter in the players’ voting for the American League All-Star team.

Technically that gave the Rangers three All-Stars in one year, along with shortstop Alex Rodriguez and third baseman Hank Blalock. Not bad for a team headed for a fourth straight last-place finish.