Maddon expresses regrets to Angels

Tampa Bay Manager Joe Maddon called Angels Manager Mike Scioscia on Wednesday to express his regrets about not playing Angels third baseman Chone Figgins and closer Brian Fuentes in Tuesday night’s All-Star game, which was won by the American League, 4-3.

Figgins was a late addition to the team, and had to scramble to get to St. Louis after learning of his selection Tuesday morning only 10 hours before the first pitch.

“Joe said he felt bad that he couldn’t get all the guys in,” Scioscia said after an optional players’ workout at Angel Stadium. “It was a close game and you have to be prepared for extra innings, so he was saving Figgy.

“Had the game been tied, he said Fuentes would have started the ninth inning. If the game was a blowout, he could have done more. We understand.”

Figgins is batting .310 with 27 stolen bases. Fuentes leads the majors with 26 saves.

But Scioscia managed the AL team in the 2003 All-Star game and knows how difficult it is to please everyone.

“You always like to see guys play, but having been through the process, I know it’s impossible to get everyone in,” he said. “I’m sure Joe did the best he could. It’s an honor for our guys to experience it.”

Figgins said after the game that he was not disappointed and was thrilled just to be there even though he didn’t play. And Scioscia could understand why.

“I think Figgy got his money’s worth,” Scioscia said. “He was selected as an All-Star, he was announced before the game, and being around that clubhouse is a special feeling.”

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mike.digiovanna@latimes.com