With the outcome of the MLB All Star Game no longer affecting home field advantage in the World Series, those in Miami were free for the first time in years to take the field with a playfulness more fitting of the exhibition.
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Nelson Cruz put the All-Star Game on pause for a moment to take a picture with his favorite umpire
Veteran umpire Joe West and Mariners star Nelson Cruz relationship goes all the way back to Cruz's rookie season in 2006
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The game itself was not a barn-burner by any means, but there were a few moments of levity that stood out as highlights to baseball fans showing what good the game could produce.
One such moment occurred in the sixth inning, when Mariners star Nelson Cruz took out his phone before reaching the batters box and requested a picture with veteran umpire Joe West. Cruz had hoped to take a selfie with the ump but was hindered by his batting gloves, leading catcher Yadier Molina to play the role of photographer.
West, who earlier this season became just the third umpire in league history to work 5,000 games, seems highly amused by the moment, which resulted in this quality Instagram post from Cruz.
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Asked after the game why he wanted a picture with Joe West, Cruz said, "
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