This past week was the Frontier League's All-Star Break and it came at a perfect time for the Joliet Slammers.

It's been a grueling first half for the organization and I'm not just talking about man-eating tarps.

The Slammers are still looking to re-capture what made last season so special. They finished the first half on the right foot, taking two of three from the Normal CornBelters before getting four days off. A lot of players have come and gone through the first 48 games as our VP of Baseball Operations Ron Biga continues to work on building this year's squad.

Three players in particular stood out during the first half and their work was rewarded when they were named to the Frontier League All-Star Game.

26 year-old Abel Nieves has played every position for the Slammers this season except for center field, catcher and pitcher. He was voted on to the All-Star team as a starter in left field and went 1-3 in the game. Nieves brings Triple-A experience to the team and has been extremely consistent all year on offense. He currently leads the team in batting average as Nieves is hitting .358.

25 year-old Amalio Diaz has been the Slammers' closer all year and currently has 10 saves. Diaz is not only a dominant force on the mound. He's also one of the nicest guys you'll meet off the field, always taking the time to sign autographs for kids before games. When we were Rockford, a former member of the armed forces waited for us to get on the bus after the game and thanked the entire team for the great example they set for his son. This originated from Diaz simply taking the time to sign the kid's baseball. Diaz is another guy who bring Triple-A experience to the team. He threw a scoreless inning in the All-Star game.

25 year-old Hector Pellot was a key member of last year's championship team and continues to produce at a high level this season. It was Pellot who hit .500 in the playoffs last year. This season he's been heating up lately including a home run in Friday night's return to action for Joliet (a 5-1 Slammers win). Pellot brings Double-A experience to the table and played some shortstop in the All-Star game despite being the Slammers' everyday second baseman.

After our weekend series in Marion, IL, the Slammers return home Monday for six games. Here's what's on tap!

Monday, July 16 is another exciting Memorable Monday presented by Me-TV. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. Take a trip down memory lane as the Slammers play your favorite classic TV show clips throughout the game. After the game all kids get to run the bases! All students can show their student I.D. at the Box Office and purchase a reserved seat for only $5. It’s also a “Sweet Suite” Night so fans can purchase a 22-person luxury suite including food for only $450.

Tuesday, July 17 is a “Two-Fer” Tuesday. Fans can purchase two hot dogs or two sodas for the price of one. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. and the Slammers are celebrating Christmas in July! Tuesday is another Spikes’ Super Students Reading Program Night presented by Aurelio’s Pizza so kids can redeem their vouchers for a spot on the lawn. After the game all kids get to run the bases! All students can show their student I.D. at the Box Office and purchase a reserved seat for only $5. It’s also a “Sweet Suite” Night so fans can purchase a 22-person luxury suite including food for only $450.

Wednesday, July 18 is a “Win It” Wednesday. If the Slammers win, all fans in attendance win a free ticket to the next Wednesday home game, which is on August 8. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. It’s also “Water Wednesday” so get ready for some aquatic fun! Wednesday is another Spikes’ Super Students Reading Program Night presented by Aurelio’s Pizza so kids can redeem their vouchers for a spot on the lawn. After the game all kids get to run the bases! All students can show their student I.D. at the Box Office and purchase a reserved seat for only $5. It’s also a “Sweet Suite” Night so fans can purchase a 22-person luxury suite including food for only $450.

Thursday, July 19 is a “Thirsty Thursday” at the yard. Fans can purchase draft beers for only $2! First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. The first 1000 fans 21 and older through the gates will receive a Bud Light Pint Glass. After the game all kids get to run the bases! All students can show their student I.D. at the Box Office and purchase a reserved seat for only $5.

Friday, July 20 is Disney Night! Fans will enjoy Disney themed video board content and on-field fun throughout the game. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. It’s also Northern Illinois University Night at Silver Cross Field. After the game fans will be treated to a spectacular fireworks show!

The homestand concludes on Saturday, July 21 with “Go Green Night” at Silver Cross Field. It’s also Union Night at the yard. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. and after the game all kids get to run the bases!

Fans can call 815-722-2287 to purchase tickets or to have any questions answered about the upcoming fun at the yard. The back of all tickets purchased at the Box Office or over the phone have a coupon for $10 off your next bill at Tilted Kilt Joliet. Tickets can also be purchased online here.

Hope to see you at the yard!