Old-fashioned logos and posters and a new game format meshed beautifully in the 2018 MLB All-Star game to give fans a taste of the past and the technology of the present.
In the 2018 Major League Baseball All-Star Game July 17 played in Washington D.C. at Nationals Park, only one run of 13 resulted from a hit not referred to as a home run. Home runs pushed runs across the plate for tie scores and an extra inning, in which more home runs decided the final outcome.
This, even though pitchers combined for a total of 25 strike-outs, including 15 in the initial 4-1/2 innings. It was feast, or famine, as American and National league hitters put together an All-Star game record 10 home runs. Previously, the All-Star classic had produced six homers in 1951, 1954, and 1971.
The evening before, a record total of 226 home runs were put up in the Home Run Derby competition, won by home stadium favorite Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals.
Stats, photos, clever poster-like screen shots and speaking live-mic to players in the field as the game progressed was a hit with fans and the participating gamers. From broadcasters to ball boys, the two-night presentation was keenly enjoyed.
During both nights of action, youngsters in their own uniforms joined the towels and Gator Aide crews (Home Run Derby) and the introductory ceremonies (All-Star game.)
A number of the Derby hitters and the starting All-Stars made the kids part of their own experience on each of the two nights, speaking with them and making them feel right at home.
Young ones fist-bumping their way through the stars standing along the chalk lines of first and third bases before the All-Star game started was sweet to watch.
A homer from the Reds’ Scooter Gennett tied the game in the ninth, then the 10th frame featured back-to-back home runs by Astros Alex Bregman and George Springer. Bregman’s tie-breaker landed him the MVP award. J. A. Happ came on to finish off the National League hitters in the bottom of the 10th, and the American League walked away with its sixth straight All-Star game victory.
The two leagues were incredibly tied before the game started, dead-locked at 43 wins apiece (with two ties) in the 88 years the classic had been played. The American League win gives it the home field advantage in the World Series this Fall, while it also took a 44-43-2 lead in the classic overall.
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Credit:
Photo courtesy of http://www.pixabay.com
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