The 2012 Home Run Derby was a huge disappointment for Robinson Cano. First, he neglected to pick Billy Butler of the host team – the Kansas City Royals – for the contest. Second, he failed to hit a ball over the fence as boos rained down upon him. His family was even treated poorly in the stands, as they watched in support of the All-Star second baseman.
Now, a year later and across town, Cano has a chance to redeem himself – and prove that he is ready to take that next step in stardom.
In a place where the Yankees experienced bitter defeat this season, Cano looks to put the Yankees in the win column at Citi Field. He also hopes to out-duel NL Derby captain, David Wright – the host of this year’s festivities in Queens. In 2011, Cano put on an absolute show in Arizona with his father, Jose, throwing to him. The moment represented what baseball stands for – pure joy in a game shared by father and son.
Cano loves this. There’s been plenty of documentation about how the Derby can mess up a player’s swing over the years. Especially since the Yankees are so injury prone this year, the last thing they want is for Cano to hurt himself or hurt his swing for the stretch run.He’s simply doing this because he’s competitive and wants to win.
Tonight is about redemption for Cano, who was embarrassed in last season’s contest. In a city where the Yankees are always the “big brother” to the Mets, Cano can steal the spotlight once again and show who the best player in New York City is.
