5 Reasons Why Anthony Rizzo Deserves All-Star Selection For Chicago Cubs

By Nick Schaeflein

5 Reasons Why Anthony Rizzo Deserves All-Star Selection For Chicago Cubs

Anthony Rizzo — The Chicago Cubs' first baseman Anthony Rizzo was voted in as the NL's final roster spot selection. It will be his first trip to the mid-summer classic, with hopefully many more to come wearing a Cubs' uniform. Rizzo will be essentially the Cubs' third representative in Minnesota, joining Starlin Castro and Jeff Samardzija. Here are five reasons why Rizzo deserves to soak up the All-Star sun next week representing Chicago.

5. He is becoming a marketable young player

Anthony Rizzo

5. He is becoming a marketable young player

Anthony Rizzo — Rizzo is only in his second full season as a member of the Cubs. He is just 24 years old and is already becoming a marketable young player for the league. Playing in a top market such as Chicago helps, and receiving 8.8 million fan votes is certainly impressive. Earlier this year he was also featured on MTV smashing actual meat balls. His attitude and personality are easy to cheer for as he continues to grow into a star.

4. He has been the key bat for the Cubs this season

Anthony Rizzo

4. He has been the key bat for the Cubs this season

Anthony Rizzo — The Cubs' offense has certainly had its rough patches this season. But during their hot streaks, Rizzo has been the key bat igniting the lineup. During a five-game winning streak earlier this year, Rizzo was responsible for either scoring or driving in the winning run in four of the games. His approach at the plate, especially against left-handers has improved a ton. He is getting limited pitches to hit, but he is making them count this year.

3. He is a cornerstone player that can make multiple All-Star Games

Anthony Rizzo

3. He is a cornerstone player that can make multiple All-Star Games

Anthony Rizzo — When the Cubs eventually bring up their young stars, they will likely join Rizzo in the lineup to create a potent crop of hitters capable of putting up some runs for years to come. With more protection, Rizzo's numbers are capable of only getting better. There is a reason why Theo Epstein has had him in two systems, and Jed Hoyer having him in three. Rizzo's potential and prime is only getting scratched with this first All-Star selection.

2. He is growing into a team leader

Anthony Rizzo

2. He is growing into a team leader

Anthony Rizzo — While Rizzo continues to develop his skills, he is also evolving into a team leader for the Cubs as well. He is standing up for his teammates, carrying them on offense, and is the face of the franchise. As the roster turns over, Rizzo will be the guy that others around him will look up to. What also is encouraging is that Rizzo is not shying away from that responsibility. During Spring Training, he even said that he was ready to carry the torch.

1. His stats back up the accolades

Anthony Rizzo

1. His stats back up the accolades

Anthony Rizzo — In 2013, Rizzo was unable to put up the kind of production that is becoming expected of him. Thus far in 2014, he is putting up that production. He leads NL first basemen in home runs, and is also in the top three of several other categories. Last year, Rizzo hit .189 against lefties, this year he is hitting nearly .300. He will soon no longer be the fourth-highest paid infielder on the Cubs' roster. Rizzo is well-deserving.

Nick Schaeflein is a Chicago Cubs writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ptchr2424 or add him to your network on Google.

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