David Price has laid off the Fortnite lately and his numbers (six wins, 2.64 ERA in his past seven starts) have picked up to All-Star caliber.
But he told the Boston Herald he'll wear out the video-game controller again in order to avoid an appearance in the Midsummer Classic next month in Washington.
Of a possible selection to the American League team by A.L. manager A.J. Hinch of the Houston Astros, Price said: “I feel like if he did, it would just be to get me to throw an extra inning,” Price told the Herald's Jason Mastrodonato. “And that would be a pretty pro move on his part. I’ll come up with something, if I am an All-Star, so I won’t have to pitch. I’ll play a lot of Fortnite the night before, so I’ll be down [unavailable].”
Price has been an All-Star five times, the last time coming in 2015 with the Detroit Tigers.
Fans vote on the starters, but players vote for reserves and pitchers with some selections made by the All-Star managers.
The Red Sox left-hander, who missed a start earlier this season when he was bothered by carpal tunnel syndrome - perhaps brought on by too much Fortnite? - listed a few teammates more deserving this season. Price is 8-4 with a 3.76 ERA.
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“Chris Sale,” Price said. “I ain’t going. I’m not an All-Star. Craig Kimbrel is gonna get his, I didn’t vote for Craig because he’s Craig Kimbrel, he’s going to get his votes. I voted for Joe Kelly and Matt Barnes. Actually I did vote for Craig. Joe, Barnes and Craig. Craig doesn’t need votes. His name is going to get him in.”