Robinson Cano Fallout Could Necessitate Hometown Players in Home Run Derby

Robinson Cano didn't pick Kansas City Royals designated hitter Billy Butler for his Home Run Derby squad, and the hometown Kauffman Stadium faithful let their displeasure be known.

After the already-infamous Cano booing incident, Major League Baseball is already examining its rules for the selection of players in the derby. In years past players were selected by the league, but in recent years the lineup has been put together by player captains representing their league.

However, because of Monday night's mini-fiasco, commissioner Bud Selig is considering requiring at least one hometown player be selected for the derby, according to ESPN.

"We'll talk about this," Selig told members of the Baseball Writers Association of America after the 2012 derby. "I felt very badly last night. I felt badly last year for Prince. This was tough."

However, perhaps not unexpected, the Major League Baseball Players Association also weighed in on the subject, voicing concerns that more deserving participants might be skipped over solely to get a local player in the competition. MLBPA executive director Michael Weiner also noted rumors that ESPN itself may have played a part in egging on the boos.

It remains to be seen what ends up happening in future derbies. However, one thing's for sure: many, many people are going to upset with Selig, either way.