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Chat Reel: MLB All-Star Game Special

CNN/Sports Illustrated anchors wrap with users

Posted: Wednesday July 12, 2000 10:01 AM

  Trey Griffey, Ken Griffey Jr. Sitting out the game: CNNSI.com's Ozzie Smith believes injured star Ken Griffey Jr. took part in the derby to please the fans. AP

Following their July 11 broadcast the MLB All-Star Game Special live from Turner Field, Ozzie Smith and Vince Cellini stayed on the set to answer some questions from CNNSI.com users in a live chat. The transcript from that chat follows:

From allstar1521: Who do you all think is gonna win the All-Star Game, AL or NL?
Ozzie Smith: Of course, being a NL person, I'm going with the NL.

From Mustang: Ozzie, what do you think of Griffey's choice of entering the Home Run Derby, but skipping the game?
Ozzie Smith: I think that Ken went through something a couple of years ago where he wouldn't do the Home Run Derby. Over the years he learned what it means to be a superstar. He knows how important it is for the fans. It was a noble thing to do on his behalf. Especially because he is hurt and Big Mac was out of it.

From BOB: What do you think Randy Johnson's big surprise is?
Ozzie Smith: He'll probably throw one over someone's head (laughs).

From redbirds: Ozzie, being a former Cardinal, what do you think of the chance of a Redbirds win this year in the Series?
Ozzie Smith: I think their chances are great. They added a lot to their pitching staff. With Edmonds, he's have a lot to do with how far they go.

From javierlopez4ever: Who do you think will be the most essential player for the NL and why?
Ozzie Smith: It always comes down to pitching. But the manager is important, too. He has to hold people back. It takes a different mindset to come in late after being used to starting ballgames.

From Regis: What do you think of Andruw Jones?
Ozzie Smith: He is one of the great up-and-coming stars. He has become more consistent at the plate. Watching him play center field, he reminds me and a lot of people of Willie Mays. He has the ability to go in a lot of directions on the field.

From Greg: Do the Cardinals need to add anything to win the pennant?
Ozzie Smith: No, I don't think so. I don't think they need to add anything. Their pitching has fallen as of late. But as of right now they have the best talent in the division.

CNNSI Host: Thanks Ozzie, now we'll be chatting with Vince.
Ozzie Smith: Thanks guys.

From redbirds: With all the injured players not being able to make the All Star game, would you think it might be a good idea to move the All Star game to the end of the season?
Vince Cellini: I think there is no accounting for injuries. It is a logical halfway point. It is a break they need with so many games. It has served us well over the years.

From PSUFan11: Were you watching the Home Run Derby last night? What did you think of Sosa's 500-ft. bombs?
Vince Cellini: I was in right-center field at Turner Field when I saw it. Seeing it where it landed it as amazing. I was with my sons. It was incredible. It was something nice to share with them. We all enjoyed it. Even for a batting practice home run, it was pretty amazing.

From Moses: What do you think about expanding the roster to account for the perennials like Ripken or Griffey who may not be having All-Star years?
Vince Cellini: I think what happens is it is difficult to play the players you have as it is. By expanding, there is not enough of a game to play all these players. It could cause some more problems.

CNNSI Host: Thanks, Vince!
Vince Cellini: Sorry to be so short. Take care, guys!


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