American League Wins All-Star Game, Nabs World Series Home Field Advantage
American League aces shut down the opposition on Tuesday night like they have all season, only this time, they did it against the best hitters from the National League.
Ten AL pitchers combined for a shutout during last night’s All-Star Game at Citi Field, as the American League defeated the National League by a score of 3-0, which also won the DH-loving league home field advantage for this year’s world series.
Every AL pitcher shined – as the NL was held to just three hits all night long – but it was New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera who receiving the biggest spotlight, as he recorded three straight outs in the eight inning following a three-minute standing ovation and took home the game’s MVP award for it.
“I think the plan was perfect,” said Rivera, according to ESPN.com.
In his farewell season, the widely-respected and appreciated 43-year-old also felt the love as he walked off the hill after his perfect inning, as he received yet another ovation. Even the other All-Stars agreed it was well deserved.
“It was a great moment. He is one of the best pitchers that’s ever played this game,” Detroit Tigers outfielder Torii Hunter said.
Needless to say, Rivera was moved by the scene after his final All-Star appearance.
“It was tough. It was special,” an emotional Rivera said. “Seeing the fans sharing and both teams standing out of the dugout — managers, coaches, players. Priceless.”
While the spotlight was on the game’s oldest player, it also shined bright on many of baseball’s young talents and future greats. Matt Harvey and Max Scherzer – who started the game for their respective sides – were among a record 39 first-time All-Stars, four of which were under 21 years of age.
Youth was certainly on display, but offense wasn’t. Even in the win and with a lineup chalked full of big sluggers, the AL managed just nine hits and three runs, but small ball was good enough to win the day behind excellent pitching.
Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Jose Bautista got the scoring started in the fourth inning, as he knocked in Miguel Cabrera with a sacrifice fly. As it turns out, that’s all the AL would need, but it added another run in the fifth on a J.J. Hardy groundout and one more in the eighth on a Jason Kipnis double that scored Salvador Perez.
Chicago White Sox ace Chris Sale earned the win for his two innings of shutout work and Arizona Diamondbacks phenom Patrick Corbin was saddled with the loss after allowing an earned run in the fourth.
The only lowlight of the night for the American League came in the first when Robinson Cano was hit by a Harvey pitch and had to leave the game with a bruised quad. However, he said it won’t keep him out for long.
“Just a little tight,” Cano said. “I’ll be good for Friday.”
After another enjoyable All-Star break, all 32 teams will be back in action for the weekend. So check back in for some premium picks!
