Harper: R.A. Dickey will not start the All-Star Game

Source says Dickey is not starting All-Star game. Will be Cain vs. Verlander.

' John Harper (@NYDNHarper) July 9, 2012

Michael Baron: Sorry ' if this is the case, then it's a poor decision on Tony La Russa's part. As great as Cain has been and as much as he should be considered for the start, Dickey should be given the honor. Dickey has been the best pitcher in baseball all year long, despite his most recent bumps in the road. His performance this year alone calls for him to start, but he has also been an unbelievable story in the game this season, and has become 'must watch TV' every five days.

This really is disappointing. As a fan, I really wanted to see Dickey get the nod. I expect he will soon follow Cain, but there would have been a special meaning to hear Dickey be announced as the starting pitcher. I was really looking forward to seeing him warming up in the bullpen as the teams are announced, watch him throw that first pitch with all eyes on him, and see the flash bulbs in the stadium going off as he begins the game.