"RHP James Shields has pitched himself into position to make the American League All-Star team. But the Rays' plans will leave him in a position where he won't be able to pitch in the July 12 game.

Manager Joe Maddon confirmed that Shields is scheduled to start the Rays' final game before the break, July 10 at Yankee Stadium. Under MLB rules, pitchers who work that day can be named to the team but are ineligible to pitch and are replaced on the active roster.

"It appears to be his day as of right now," Maddon said. "The Rays are much more important. … We have set this thing up for a while."

Shields said he was okay with the plan, which also has him in line to face the Red Sox and Yankees coming out of the break. "I'd rather win a bunch of ballgames for this team," he said. "Obviously I'd love to pitch in the All-Star Game if I make it, but it is what it is. I'm not going to cry over it. It would definitely be an honor just to be able to make the team.""