Well, looks like A-Rod is out...

Alex Rodriguez may be the American League's leading vote-getter for this year's All-Star Game, but the reigning MVP has no plans on making it a two-day event.

 

Even with the All-Star festivities taking place in his home ballpark, A-Rod said he would not participate in the Home Run Derby, which takes place the night before the All-Star Game.

 

"I try to stay away from that," Rodriguez said. "My responsibility is to the New York Yankees. I need my swing to be at its best." Like many players, Rodriguez insists that taking part in the Home Run Derby can have a damaging effect on his swing.

 

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/2008/06/30/2008-06-30_arod_to_skip_hr_derby_claims_it_tampers_.html

Giambi has been begging to get in, and if A-Rod's not swinging, he may be the only "Yankee" who can legitimately enter the contest at Yankee stadium.

the less Alex -or anyone from the evil empire- i see, the better. There has to be a Devil Ray entree!

I'm feeling Josh Hamilton this year.