Goldschmidt overcomes early struggles, makes 4th All-Star Game

Even though he struggled at the plate early in the season, Paul Goldschmidt has been named to the National League All-Star team for the fourth straight season.

Goldschmidt told Burns and Gambo on Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Tuesday about how he used his past experience of struggles at the plate to overcome this year’s slump.

“There was some frustration. At times you have a chance to drive a guy in and you don’t do it and the team loses by a run,” Goldschmidt said. “I’ve struggled before and there’s been times this season and in the minors where I’ve struggle before and I knew it was going to pass and it’s just part of the game. I kept working hard and tried not to get down on myself.”

In Goldschmidt’s first 39 games, he had a batting average of .222 with five doubles, seven home runs, 20 RBI and three steals.

However, over his next 44 games, he has a .345 batting average with 12 doubles, eight home runs, 36 RBI and eight steals.

With his hot stretch over the past month-and-a-half, he has raised his batting average from .222 to .290 and fully affirm himself worthy of an All-Star nod.

He was a National League reserve in 2012, but won the fan vote in 2013 and 2014 as the starting first basemen. This year, Goldschmidt was voted on by his peers to be the back-up to Chicago Cubs’ Anthony Rizzo.

“It means a lot (to get voted in by the players). It’s a little different twice getting voted in by the players and twice by the fans. You appreciate all the fan support, but definitely to have the players vote you in,” Goldschmidt said. “The guys you compete against, to have them think highly of you and earn their respect means a lot as well.”

The All-Star Game will be played July 12 at Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres. First pitch is at 5 p.m. on FOX.