Root for Ryan Franklin at the All Star Game

Sometimes fans get lost in all the "this time it counts" nonsense and forget to focus on all the great stories surrounding the all star game.

Case and point: Ryan Franklin, who will be appearing in his first all star game this season. Franklin's reaction to making the team is exactly what the all star game is all about:

Franklin, a 36-year-old reliever, started to tear up when he described the standing ovation he got from his teammates in the clubhouse. He'd spent a sleepless night wondering whether he'd be chosen.

"Aw, man, it meant a whole lot," said Franklin, a former starter who has closed games the last two years. "There was a lot of tossing and turning, a few good dreams, a few bad dreams -- about not making it. It's a cool feeling. I just can't wait to experience it."

I have been bitter towards the Cardinals since 2006 when they eliminated my beloved Mets in heartbreaking fashion, but for one night, I'll absolutely be rooting for a Cardinal.

And no, it will not be Yadier Molina.