No matter the names, the A.L. dominates the All-Star game in the 21st century and starts the World Series at home. They’re only 26th in the majors when it comes to quality starts.
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Bryant became the eighth Cubs player to homer in the All-Star Game, and the youngest since Augie Galan in 1936. Referees swallowing the whistle for the final period and overtime of playoff games in the National Hockey League is yet another. It’s a game of probabilities, and each small percentage matters towards the end result.
American League infielder Eduardo Nunez (9) of the Minnesota Twins turns a double play over National League infielder Paul Goldschmidt (44) of the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 9th inning in the 2016 MLB All Star Game at Petco Park. But in this day and age of internet, fragmented cable universe and so many other alternatives, the All-Star Game can no longer make that claim. And in those isolated at-bats, compartmentalizing each pitch or swing or defensive play, the intensity was there – as was the execution.
The NL’s other run came on a single by Miami Marlins outfielder Marcell Ozuna off Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Aaron Sanchez that brought home Giants catcher Buster Posey in the top of the fourth inning.
There was a time when the MLB All-Star Game could boast that it was a mid-summer ratings and viewership draw.
When you think about the type of players that have come through the Royals organization since 1969, it is insane to think that Eric Hosmer has achieved something so many haven’t.
Tony Gwynn, the greatest Padre ever and one of history’s finest hitters, passed away two years ago, and holding this event in San Diego felt a little weird without him.
The facade diminishes us all though.
The Kansas City Royals, despite back-to-back World Series appearances, do not have the budget to keep all of their players from leaving via free agency.
On the whole the news is certainly not what Major League Baseball was hoping for, but it should not be construed as a death nail for the All-Star Game.
“Hopefully this is something we can all rally upon for the second half and find a way to use that home-field advantage”, Hosmer said, according to the Associated Press’ Ronald Blum. Unfortunately, the American League prevailed for the 11th time in 14 tries and they will get home field advantage in the World Series once again.
The Cleveland Indians’ Corey Kluber got the win, Cueto got the loss, Britton delivered the save, and the AL won its fourth straight All-Star Game.
The game had a lot of action early. Would players have left the building with their teammates still playing and the outcome in doubt, something taboo during normal competition?
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If I have, for instance, Jake Arrieta from last August, why wouldn’t I let him throw eight innings, then pick my best closer to finish the game?
