So my beloved New York Yankees were able to reach .500 at the All-Star break, though they’re still seven and a half games out of first place in the AL East. Two Bronx cheers for the Pinstripers.

In the National League, my hometown Nats are enjoying this respite with a .600 winning percentage and a six game lead over the Mets and Marlins. With healthy arms and some solid bats you can lock up a playoff spot for the Nats. (You heard it here first.)

Tonight, of course, is the All-Star Game’s Home Run Derby. Last year’s rules changes made the thing epic, and I expect this year to bring the same. The only confusing thing I imagine is that though I’ll be watching the event live at night here it will be daytime in San Diego, reminiscent of when they used to tape the thing during the day and show it at night.

No matter. I plan to be entertained, though I’m a bit disappointed Giants pitcher (pitcher extraordinaire) Madison Bumgarner won’t be involved as was suggested some time ago. That guy (who threw a one-hitter yesterday, by the way) would have been my favorite to win, of course. As things are… Cano all day.

Yeah, he still makes me feel old, but at least it’s not as terrible as the other guys.