Update 6:45 p.m. Amidst all the All-Star reactions and such, one person not to be left out is LHP J.P. Howell, whom manager Joe Maddon said deserved to make the team, but couldn't due to a number's crunch, etc.

Howell said Maddon talked to him about it before Saturday's game, said he understands.

"I wouldn't want to be in his shoes picking all these guys," Howell said. "He definitely had a tough decision to make. He took the time to do it and made the right decision. Like I said, I'm glad I'm not him.'

There is a chance Howell could make the team, in the case of an injury, etc.

"Either way, it's ok, it's not the end of the world," Howell said. "It's definitely something you always want to do as a kid. It's just one of those things you gotta let it go, and move on."

**

Several Rays should be in a good mood today, with four players making the AL All-Star team (Evan Longoria, Jason Bartlett, Ben Zobrist and Carl Crawford).

But Tampa Bay will also be trying to avoid a three-game sweep today by the resurgent Rangers, as RHP Matt Garza will take the mound.

Garza had some memorable outings here last season, from his complete-game two hit shutout to his rough start that included a heated exchange with Dioner Navarro.

Upton cf
Crawford lf
Longoria 3b
Pena 1b
Zobrist 2b
Burrell dh
Gross rf
Bartlett ss
Navarro c 
 





-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com