David Wright leads Pablo Sandoval in All-Star vote

David Wright reacts after striking out swinging in the first... — David Wright reacts after striking out swinging in the first inning of a game against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. (June 2, 2013) Credit: Getty

By NEWSDAY.COMsports@newsday.comJuly 2, 2013

Whether he should thank the cougars or Craig Carton specifically isn't clear, but David Wright has a comfortable lead to start the All-Star Game at third base.

Wright, who was edged out by a late push in favor of San Francisco's Pablo Sandoval last year, was locked in a close battle with Sandoval earlier this season. But the latest All-Star totals, released Tuesday afternoon, show Wright with over 840,000 more votes than Sandoval.

The All-Star Game takes place at home for Wright this season, with the showcase taking place at Citi Field on July 16. Fans can continue to vote until Thursday at 11:59 p.m.

Wright has gained attention in recent weeks for several unorthodox methods designed to help elect him to start the game, even though he wasn't directly involved with any of them. After a website for older women who prefer younger men voted Wright the hottest "cub," the Mets had a short-lived flirtation trying to get the women to vote for Wright. WFAN's Carton also organized several promotions in favor of Wright's candidacy.

Two other Mets, second baseman Daniel Murphy and catcher John Buck, are also among the top vote-getters at their positions, but trail their respective leaders by a significant margin.

Here are the totals:

CATCHER

recommendedHome Run Derby winners

Yadier Molina, Cardinals: 5,093,645

Buster Posey, Giants: 4,674,847

John Buck, Mets: 1,446,565

Miguel Montero, Diamondbacks: 997,791

Brian McCann, Braves: 997,322

FIRST BASE

Joey Votto, Reds: 3,622,608

Paul Goldschmidt, Diamondbacks: 3,035,114

Allen Craig, Cardinals: 2,525,399