USA – A pair of Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees highlight Sporting News’ 2008 National League and American League All-Star teams, respectively, which was announced recently. Both teams were chosen by a panel of assistant general managers and general managers from each league.

Second baseman Chase Utley and closer Brad Lidge of the reigning National League Champions join St. Louis Cardinals’ first baseman Albert Pujols and outfielder Ryan Ludwick as the only clubs featuring two players. In the American League, the Yankees, Indians and Twins all placed two members on the team.

Utley’s two-run shot in the opening frame of the World Series opener propelled the Phillies to a 3-2 win over Tampa Bay. Although bothered by a nagging hip injury the second half of the season, the three-time All-Star second baseman hit .292 with 33 homers and 104 RBIs during the regular season.

National League

C – Geovany Soto, Cubs
1B – Albert Pujols, Cardinals
2B – Chase Utley, Phillies
SS – David Wright, Mets
3B – Hanley Ramirez, Marlins
OF – Matt Holliday, Rockies
OF – Ryan Braun, Brewers
OF – Ryan Ludwick, Cardinals
SP – Tim Lincecum, Giants
RP – Brad Lidge, Phillies

American League

C – Joe Mauer, Twins
1B – Justin Morneau, Twins
2B – Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox
SS – Derek Jeter, Yankees
3B – Alex Rodriguez, Yankees
OF – Carlos Quentin, White Sox
OF – Josh Hamilton, Rangers
OF – Grady Sizemore, Indians
DH – Aubrey Huff, Orioles
SP – Cliff Lee, Indians
RP – Francisco Rodriguez, Angels

Source: Sporting News

Tags: USA