(670 The Score) Five Cubs players have advanced to the second phase of All-Star balloting, which will determine the starters for the Midsummer Classic.
Catcher Willson Contreras, first baseman Anthony Rizzo, shortstop Javier Baez, third baseman Kris Bryant and outfielder Joc Pederson are among the finalists at their positions, MLB announced Sunday. Three players at each position advanced to the final round of voting except for in the outfield, where nine finalists advanced to fill the three positions.
Votes reset back to zero for the second phase of voting, which begins Monday at 11 a.m. CT. and concludes Thursday at 1 p.m. CT.
Fans determine the position player starters for the All-Star Game. Pitchers and reserves are selected by players and the MLB commissioner's office.
When the balloting returns were released last Monday, Bryant had a healthy lead at third base. If the same theme continues in this round, he should be in line to start the All-Star Game, which will be held in Denver on July 13.
The other four Cubs weren’t previously at the top of their positions, meaning their quest to earn a starting spot in the All-Star Game could be more difficult.