ARLINGTON, Texas - Maybe the third time will be an All-Star charm for Texas ace Yu Darvish.
Two years ago he made the All-Star team in the Final vote but didn't pitch in the game. Last year Darvish was selected but missed the game because he was on the disabled list.
Next week in Minnesota Darvish should a go should he be asked to pitch and the right-hander is looking forward to the opportunity.
"If I have a chance I'd like to put everything I have," Darvish said of a shot at pitching. "It could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience so I'd like to enjoy it."
As for the possibility of starting, Darvish believes that will go to Seattle ace Felix Hernandez. Darvish should be well rested for the game. He's slated to make his final start before the All-Star Game Wednesday.
Two weeks ago Darvish wasn't as optimistic about his chances of pitching in the All-Star Game because it looked like he'd start this Sunday. He said then he'd prefer not to pitch, but that changed after his start in Baltimore was pushed back because of the chances of a rainout.
Darvish said he thought one of the best pitchers in the game now is St. Louis All-Star Adam Wainwright. As for where he thinks he ranks among the game's elite?
"I really don't but I think I'm a little bit better than Little League pitchers," he said.
