Gary Sanchez Talks Logan Morrison's Criticism of 2017 Home Run Derby Selection

Seth Wenig/Associated Press

After getting criticized by Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Logan Morrison for his selection to the Home Run Derby, New York Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez responded Wednesday.

According to David Lennon of Newsday, Sanchez said the following: "They gave me an invitation. That's something I have no control over. It's not my fault he didn't get selected."

On Tuesday, Morrison took issue with Sanchez's receiving an invite despite having just 13 home runs, per Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times.

Morrison was blunt in his assessment of Sanchez's participation in the Home Run Derby: "Gary shouldn't be there. Gary's a great player, but he shouldn't be in the Home Run Derby. I remember when I had 14 home runs. That was a month and a half ago."

The 29-year-old Morrison is enjoying a career year, as he is currently tied for third in Major League Baseball with 24 homers.

Sanchez has only 13 home runs, missing an extended period of time due to injury, but he is a prolific home run hitter in his own right.

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In 53 games last season, Sanchez clubbed 20 homers and established himself as one of the league's fastest-rising power hitters.

On Monday, Sanchez will join Yankees teammate Aaron Judge in representing the American League at the Home Run Derby from Marlins Park in Miami.

Sanchez was selected as an All-Star reserve, while Morrison is one of five players on the ballot to be voted in as the American League's final player.