Sanchez, Bay provide highlight for Pirates

Sanchez is tied with Nomar Garciaparra for the NL's best batting average.
By TOM WILLIAMS
VINDICATOR SPORTS STAFF
PITTSBURGH -- Pirates infielder Freddy Sanchez doesn't know if he'll be inserted defensively into tonight's All-Star Game at PNC Park or even what position he'll play.
He doesn't care.
Advised that National League manager Phil Garner might take advantage of his ability to play just about anywhere in the infield, the 28-year-old Sanchez responded, "That's fine with me. It's an honor just to wear a big-league uniform. To be able to wear an All-Star uniform is even more [special].
"I can't wait to get out there for the game. It's been crazy but it's been good," said Sanchez whose .358 batting average has him tied with the Dodgers' Nomar Garciaparra for the NL's best. "I only had a couple of hours sleep last night, tossing and turning."
While the hometown spotlight will be on Sanchez, the first-time All-Star is aware that starting teammate Jason Bay will grab a large share of the limelight.
"He's a true All-Star and a great guy off the field," said Sanchez of the NL's top vote-getter among outfielders. "I told him to lead the way and I'll follow."
Asked to evaluate Bay's worth to the Pirates (a franchise suffering its 14th straight losing season), Sanchez said, "He means everything pretty much.
"He's the type of player that you never know if he was 0-for-4 or 4-for-4. That's what so good about him -- he keeps his composure and has a great attitude every day," Sanchez said. "And he hits the ball all over. That's what makes him so dangerous."
Not there yet
When someone Monday suggested that Bay's election to the All-Star Game starting lineup was a feat worthy of Willie Stargell or Roberto Clemente, Bay suggested otherwise.
"Two All-Star games and three years in the league doesn't put me in their category yet, that's for sure," Bay said. "But it's definitely flattering to be a big part of this franchise with the history it has. And it's flattering that so many fans voted for me."
Bay said he hopes Sanchez will get a chance to contribute in tonight's nationally-televised game.
"This is probably a coming out party for Freddy," Bay said. "Ask baseball fans who's leading the National League in hitting and they'd probably say Nomar Garciaparra. Freddy deserves to be here; he's done an unbelievable job."
Along with Bay, Phillies second baseman Chase Utley and Mets third baseman David Wright are among the first-time NL starters.
"It's pretty exciting," said Utley, 28, who has 25 doubles and 16 homers. "You dream of something like this [but] you can't expect it."
Despite having the NL's best record (53-46), Wright said the Mets have room for improvement in the second half.
"Losing two out of three at Yankee Stadium, getting swept by Boston shows us we have a ways to go," said Wright, 23. "I think that's going to motivate us for the second half."
Wright doesn't have a problem with the All-Star Game's outcome affecting home-field advantage for the World Series.
"I think it's as good of a way as any," Wright said. "I think it makes the game more fun for the fans. It makes the game more interesting to watch as a fan.
"I think it's a good idea and players go out there and take it a little more seriously and play a little better than if it didn't mean anything."
williams@vindy.com