KANSAS CITY — Carlos Gonzalez waited three-plus seasons to become an all-star. He won’t have to wait long to get his first taste. The Rockies’ lone representative was selected as the National League’s designated hitter and will hit leadoff as the game’s first batter Tuesday night.

“I relied on the greatest teammate anybody can have in Carney Lansford. I talked to him. He talked about CarGo. He said last year he could hit all over when he really got hot. He hit at the top of the lineup,” La Russa said. “I like when Justin Verlanders takes the mound in the top of the first and he will look over and see someone who can do real damage right off the bat. We have guys who will get his attention.”

Gonzalez has hit leadoff throughout his Rockies’ career, but has settled as the third spot this season. Gonzalez told The Post last week he was open to DHing.

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Colorado Rockies’ Carlos Gonzalez hits a double against the Houston Astros in the fourth inning of a baseball game on Thursday, May 31, 2012, in Denver. (Joe Mahoney, AP file) Photo by