KANSAS CITY -- Reds manager Bryan Price was honored by the news that he'll be part of Bruce Bochy's National League coaching staff for the 2015 All-Star Game at Great American Ball Park.

"A really nice thing for Bruce to do in putting me on the staff," Price said before Tuesday's series opener against the Royals. "It's pretty exciting." Price knows it will be a special moment when he has an opportunity to be introduced and can tip his cap to the hometown fans.

The only thing that could make Price's All-Star experience better would be for the Reds to catch fire and be in the thick of the National League Central race by the time the All-Star break rolls around.

"From a personal standpoint, it's neat. It would be really nice if our ballclub was playing really well and a lot more in the race than we are at this point in time," Price said. "So that people are not only excited about the All-Star Game, but excited about the Reds as well. That would be a really nice combination."