mlb all-star break

First off, I agree with some of the recommendations I've seen for improving the Home Run Derby: 5 outs per batter. In the finals, alternate 3 innings of 3 outs for each batter going back and forth.

To really make it a worthwhile day day before, they should add a skills competition. Possible events:

• Outfield throws to home plate target
• Fastest to run the bases
• Line drive accuracy contest

They could intermix the rounds, to keep the variety going. It could be very exciting.

Update: How about a fastest pitch contest? Or a pitching at target contest like this:



Or how about a fielding contest where they shoot a bunch of fly balls and they have to run back and forth and make catches over the wall? Maybe an infield grounder contest, I dunno...