When two Cincinnati Reds were named to the National League All-Star team, it was vindication for both the players and the team. That there were a few other players that received consideration, it was a sign that the team is better in 2017 than it was in 2016. That doesn’t mean the consideration was truly warranted, though.
Joey Votto and Arizona Diamondbacks’ first baseman Paul Goldschmidt make each other look normal. Remove either and the other looks like the best player of a generation in the National League. Ryan Zimmerman is getting the press, but his career season still doesn’t match what Votto, who is arguably better, and Goldschmidt do on an annual basis.