Article: Let Gwynn take his last cuts: ; National Leaguers would gladly give up a plate appearance

SEATTLE - Baseball is giving Cal Ripken and Tony Gwynn a triumphant sendoff in their final All-Star week.

Unfortunately, it's not an equal one.

Once the All-Star Game starts tonight, Gwynn will be stuck in the dugout, while Ripken - his fellow retiree-to-be - starts at third base and gets one more chance to shine on baseball's summer stage.

"I know I'd like to see Tony Gwynn get an at-bat," said Kirby Puckett, the honorary captain for the American League. "He should be honored along with Cal for what he's done in this game. He's earned that respect."

But he's not getting it despite a precedent for creating a special roster spot for retiring greats.

In 1983, baseball made an exemption to ...

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