Hey Now You're an All-Star

Tonight is the 88th All-Star Game and for the first time since 2002 it doesn't count.   Since the tie in 2002 which led to the designation of the All-Star game as determining which league gets Home Field Advantage in the World Series.  This designation has gone to the American League 11 of the 14 times the game "counted" and 22 of the last 29 (with one tie), but the NL leads the Series 43-42-2, because of domination in the 50's to early 80's.

In reality, the All-Star Game only "counted" three times, when the series went seven games in 2011, 2014 and 2016, however the team with the advantage won only one of those games--the 2011 St. Louis Cardinals.

So the All-Star game has returned to a pure exhibition, showcasing the best players in the sport.  Baseball has always lent itself to having a real All-Star Game because it's not necessary to play together for a long time to have an effectively good game.  NHL, NBA, and NFL "All-Star" games just seem to be a different game altogether.

The Rockies for the first time are sending four players, two starters,  OF Charlie Blackmon and 3b Nolan Arenado, as well as 2b D.J. LeMahieu and Closer Greg Holland.  Blackmon also appeared in the Home Run Derby, losing to Cody Bellinger in the first round.

Personally, I have attended two All-Star Games, 1976 at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia and, 1998 at Coors Field.   It's a special experience.  Enjoy the return to the showcase, and may the Rockies do well.