All-Star Manager Bruce Bochy softens stance on Yasiel Puig

SAN FRANCISCO – On the eve of the unveiling of the All-Star rosters, San Francisco Giants Manager Bruce Bochy sounded as if he was more open to the idea of Yasiel Puig making the National League roster.

Bochy will manage the NL team.

“He’s done a great job,” Bochy said. “Tomorrow we’ll know exactly who’s going to make the club and which way we’re going to go. He’s done a great job. Believe me, that’s not gone unnoticed. He’s a very exciting player. There’s been a lot of talk about him, a lot of interest from different people to have him in there. I understand that. I have to do what I think is right and tomorrow you’ll know.’’

Asked if he could remember a player with as little major league service time who made an All-Star team, Bochy mentioned Bryce Harper last year.

“Part of it is you understand as a manager the fans want to see a certain player,” Bochy said. “It’s exciting for them. They’ve made a huge splash. They’re bringing so much energy, it’s intriguing. And even though it’s a small sample size, when you look at the noise [Puig] has made, and it happens in a big city, and he has to be credited with what’s happened with their club. He’s been a spark for their team.’’

When the Giants visited Dodger Stadium last week, Bochy didn’t think Puig deserved a place on the team

“Generally, guys that go to the All-Star Game are guys that have a great first half, not a great three weeks,” Bochy said at the time. “If you ask me a week from now, I may say I’ve changed my mind.”

Bochy, in consultation with the league office, will make the final few selections for the NL roster. There will be one other spot open to an online vote.