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Its media day at the All-Star Game, where every player is available for about a half-hour to answer questions from a variety of reporters.

Last years media day in San Diego featured seven Cubs, all of whom were repeatedly asked about the teams slump heading into the All-Star break.

This year Joe Maddon is the only one back from the 2016 champs, and newcomer Wade Davis is the only Cubs' rep.

"That was an awkward moment (Sunday)," Maddon said, "To be presented a jersey on our field in front of all of our fans and have none of our players out there. It was different. It was difficult. Actually I talked to (Ben Zobrist) about it... just to let him know how much I respect and appreciate how much they've done for us, and how awkward it was for me personally to accept this jersey while they're all sitting in the dugout.

"It's a little bit different. I guess it's really never happened before. I'm really looking forward to our second half. I have a strong belief system in our guys, and I'm not just saying that. It's not just lip service. It was kind of different and uncomfortable because of that.

"We (managers) get to represent here because of the efforts of our players, and what they did last year."

Maddon didn't have to answer any questions about the Cubs, as the players did last year.

Anthony Rizzo was so annoyed at the non-stop questions about the Cubs downfall and its snake-bit and demoralized fans he finally blurted out: I cant control if Erics sitting on his couch and doesnt play baseball and is mad at our team. I just cant control that.

Rizzo came home to Wrigley and said the only ones panicking were the media, referring to narrative from the All-Star Game week. The Cubs answered with a dominant second half and overcame deficits in the NLCS and World Series to finally bring home a title.

Its dj vu all over again in Miami, with the Cubs heading into the break on a sour note after Sundays 14-3 loss left them two games under .500 and 5 1/2 back of the Brewers.

But only Davis had to answer all the questions regarding their struggles and the demoralized, albeit no longer snake-bit fans. Someone asked if it felt strange to be the only rep for the world champs, even though he wasn't on the team.

"You're like the sixth person that's asked that," Davis said, grinning. "I can only speak for myself. I think there's a lot of talent on the team and they're be fine, we'll be good when we get into the second half of the season. I guarantee it. I'm just fortunate to be on that team."

Maddon announced his starting pitcher, Max Scherzer, who will face the American League's Chris Sale.

Read the original:
Joe Maddon sets his NL lineup for tomorrow's All-Star Game - Chicago Tribune