July 5, 200323 yr c/o mlb.com PHILADELPHIA -- Merely making the All-Star team is a far-fetched fantasy for Marlins phenom Dontrelle Willis. Now there is speculation that the 21-year-old lefty may not just be on the National League squad, he could even start. Such a scenario would be flattering to Willis, but he says he would respectfully decline. "This is something bigger than [making the]team," said Willis when asked his thoughts of starting in the Mid-Summer Classic if presented the opportunity. "This is about respect. I'd give someone else the ball. It's not my time. ... You've got to crawl before you walk." Don't get Willis wrong. He wants to make it clear he is a competitor and wouldn't turn down the opportunity to represent the Marlins at the All-Star Game. But being selected is one thing. Being asked to start is another. Willis, who is respectful of the entire Major League experience and what the All-Star Game represents, says other pitchers are much more deserving. On his All-Star ballot -- players have a vote that factors into the selection of the reserves and pitchers -- Willis voted for Dodgers right-hander Kevin Brown and Philadelphia's Kevin Millwood. "These guys are guys who have been here," Willis says. "They deserve to be here. They've worked half their lives to be here. I've been here for two hours, why do I deserve it? "I've done nothing to get that honor, but kick my leg up high in the air." Keep in mind the 21-year-old left-hander started the season in the obscurity of Double-A ball. But since making his Major League debut, he has posted All-Star worthy numbers -- 8-1, 2.13 ERA. On ESPN's Baseball Tonight Thursday, they discussed the hypothetical of Willis even starting for the National League. Since he's gained more notoriety, Willis watches less national sports shows. He has made 11 big-league starts, and the Marlins are 9-2 in those games. He's already been named National League Player of the Week, Player of the Month and Rookie of the Month. An All-Star start when there is home-field advantage for each league hanging in the balance would be something that makes him uncomfortable. Willis clearly doesn't want to be resented for his early success. He is a competitor and would love to play in the game. But he has a high respect level for other noteworthy pitchers. He feels Atlanta rookie left-hander Horacio Ramirez (7-2) is equally deserving of All-Star consideration. Willis was brought up from Double-A Carolina in early May after A.J. Burnett and Josh Beckett were placed on the disabled list. "I'm not saying I don't want to be out there," Willis said. "You have to respect the game. Maybe it's the way I was brought up. Kind of like respecting your elders." Willis' vow to turn the ball over to a veteran like Brown would be an act similar to Allen Iverson yielding his starting position to Michael Jordan at the NBA All-Star Game. "I'd get him in for one inning," Marlins manager Jack McKeon said. "Let the people see him." While Willis says he would refuse the opportunity to start, how All-Star manager Dusty Baker's decision shapes up will be interesting to follow. Willis is scheduled to pitch Tuesday at the Cubs, which will be his final start before the All-Star Game. The 21-year-old would be well rested.
July 5, 200323 yr Thats good spirit from Dontrelle. I would pitch but not start the game There are other people that have done better than DW. I hope he gets picked but not to start.
July 5, 200323 yr His attitude is the complete opposite of a Barry Bonds or a Roger Clemens. Those two are extreamely arrogant compared to D-Tran, whose modesty is refreshing...
July 6, 200323 yr i know that he is very modest and doesnt let the fame get to his head but i should say if he is presented the chance. just start it
July 6, 200323 yr he is tryin to do what Iverson and and T.Mac and Vince carter did 4 Jordan pay all respects.... but damn!!! Kevin Brown has payed his dues been on 2 World Series teams and has a ring not to mention his own JET!!!!! f*** that, Start the game aint nobody in the NL better than he is..... who should start it?????? all i can think of is Jason Schmit but he got roughed up yesterday
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