MLB stars got their start playing in MWL classic

Posted June 18, 2012 9:09 pm

By Chad Thornburg

When the Midwest League All-Star Game gets under way Tuesday at Fifth Third Bank Ballpark in Geneva, 68 players will dot the Eastern and Western Division rosters, providing fans at the annual classic a chance to meet future baseball stars before they become household names.

Here’s a glance at some current MLB stars who have been named Midwest League all-stars in the past:

Ÿ Albert Pujols: Peoria Chiefs, 2000. 12th year in MLB. Los Angeles Angels.

Ÿ Adrian Gonzalez: Kane County Cougars, 2001. 9th year in MLB. Boston Red Sox.

Ÿ Adam Dunn: Dayton Dragons, 2000. 12th year in MLB. Chicago White Sox.

Ÿ Jake Peavy: Fort Wayne TinCaps (formerly the Fort Wayne Wizards), 2000. 11th year in MLB. Chicago White Sox.

Ÿ Alex Rodriguez: Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (formerly the Foxes), 1994. 19th year in MLB. New York Yankees.

Ÿ Johan Santana: Quad City River Bandits, 1998. 12th year in MLB. New York Mets.

Ÿ Justin Morneau: Quad City River Bandits, 2001. 10th year in MLB. Minnesota Twins.

Ÿ Nelson Cruz: Kane Coutny Cougars, 2003. 8th year in MLB. Texas Rangers.

Ÿ Clayton Kershaw: Great Lake Koons, 2007. 5th year in MLB. Los Angeles Dodgers.

Ÿ Prince Fielder: Beloit Snappers, 2003. 8th year in MLB. Detroit Tigers.

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