Levine: Todd Frazier Likely To Defend Home Run Derby Title

By Bruce Levine--

CHICAGO (CBS) -- White Sox third baseman Todd Frazier is ready to defend his Home Run Derby title on July 11 during the All-Star festivities in San Diego.

Despite not making the the American League All-Star squad, Frazier made clear he would accept the invitation compete. That invitation is expected to be officially extended soon enough.

Frazier is second in the AL with 23 homers and won the Home Run Derby last season as a member of the Cincinnati Reds in his then-home park of Great American Ball Park.

"Shoot man, it's a great event," Frazier said. "I basically know I will not be an All-Star, so it's just one day for me to have as much fun as possible. It will be great to be around and compete against some of the greatest players that have ever played this game."

Frazier was the National League's starter at third base in the All-Star Game in 2015. He won the Derby title by a 15-14 margin in the final round against Dodgers outfielder Joc Pederson.

"I don't know who in their right mind would even think about not going," Frazier said. "It would be a good time, and to be next to David Ortiz in his last All-Star Game, I think that would be pretty neat."

Frazier has been a leader and catalyst for the White Sox this season despite hitting just .210.

Frazier's brother will be throwing to him, as he did the last two All-Star games. Frazier was runner-up in the event to Yoenis Cespedes in 2014.

"The key to the contest is to understanding your own strengths," Frazier said. "When you get tired, you just slow it up a bit. You take a break because everyone gets a timeout. Whatever you do, just have fun with it. Enjoy the moment. I think it's the highlight of the All-Star break to be honest."

White Sox manager Robin Ventura is cool with Frazier particpiating in the event.

"I don't mind if (Frazier) does it," Ventura said. "He has done it before. He has won it. If a guy is going to go and have no chance to win it, that is probably going to mess up his swing, you might care. I think he enjoys doing it. He has the personality to handle it, win or lose. He kind of has an all-or-nothing thing going with his swing, which will help him in the home run hitting contest."

Added Frazier: "The balls fly, and it's fun seeing them fly. That is what the fans pay to see. They want to see those balls launched."

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score and CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.