Can a player with a .215 batting average make the All-Star Game? U.S. media criticizes fans for being needlessly blind.

MLB All-Star Game voting is heating up. For the National League shortstop slot, Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts, who has continued to struggle this season, nevertheless holds second place. In response to this outcome, U.S. media outlet *Dodgers Way* recently questioned fans' "excessive voting," stating that such blind support is unnecessary.

Dodgers beat reporter *Dodgers Way* recently reviewed voting across defensive positions. Currently, four Dodgers hold first place: Freddie Freeman (first base), Max Muncy (third base), Shohei Ohtani (designated hitter), and Andy Pages (outfield). Catcher Will Smith and Mookie Betts rank second, while outfielder Teoscar Hernandez sits in fifth.

Regarding these results, *Dodgers Way* directly called out MVP star Betts for his poor performance this season, backing up the criticism with detailed stats. The report noted that Betts has played only 41 games this season, posting a .215 batting average, 8 home runs, 19 RBIs, and a .674 OPS (.275 on-base percentage, .399 slugging percentage).

In comparison, current first-place vote-getter, Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams, has appeared in 74 games with a .284 average, 15 homers, 55 RBIs, and an .880 OPS (.367 OBP, .513 SLG). Miami Marlins' Otto Lopez has played 75 games, hitting .334 with 5 homers, 32 RBIs, and an .836 OPS (.367 OBP, .470 SLG). Next to these players, Betts' numbers clearly fall short.

*Dodgers Way* first sarcastically asked, "Is Betts having an All-Star caliber season?" questioning fans who vote entirely based on loyalty rather than performance. The article concluded by stressing, "Dodgers fans’ loyalty is commendable, but there’s really no need to be so blind this year—he shouldn’t be going to Philadelphia."

Last year, Betts failed to make the All-Star team due to poor performance. Many thought it was just a fluke, but this year, it seems it really isn't.