2019 ALL-STAR GAME
The 2019 Mid-West Baseball League All-Star Game was held on Saturday Night, November 2nd, 2019 in the home of the Hollywood Werewolves.
“Special. recognition is given here to Brandon Hogan for taking on the past All-Star Games Project as he has helped out playing these and catching up not only with the MWBL but also with some past MWWL All-Star Games. Thank you very much Brandon for helping out with these projects. I hope you enjoy the Mid-Baseball & Mid-West Winter League as much as we have the past 25 Years!”
STARTING PITCHERS:
Max Scherzer 27-5 (1.56) vs. Patrick Corbin 22-5 (2.30)
In a game where the crack of the bat was as rare as a cool breeze in August, the 2019 Mid-West Baseball League (MWBL) All-Star Game turned into a classic pitcher’s battle. Fans who filled the stadium expecting a slugfest were instead treated to a masterclass in pitching prowess from both sides.
From the very first inning, it was clear that runs would be at a premium. Patrick Corbin and Max Scherzer, starting pitchers for their respective teams, set the tone early. Corbin’s smooth delivery and sharp breaking balls kept hitters guessing, except Jose Ramirez, while Scherzer’s electric fastball had batters swinging at air.
The only run in the early going came off the bat of Jose Ramirez of the Jersey Nor’easters, who launched a solo home run in the top of the first. His powerful swing sent the ball soaring over the outfield wall, leaving outfielder Khris Davis to watch helplessly as it disappeared into the stands. Ramirez wasn’t done there; he later doubled, showcasing his ability to hit for both power and average.
As the innings progressed, the relievers continued the trend started by the starters. Michael Foltynewicz, J.A. Happ, Aaron Nola, and Zack Greinke all threw scoreless frames, weaving through lineups with an array of pitches that left hitters frustrated and fans on the edge of their seats.
The defensive plays were just as impressive as the pitching. In the bottom of the second, with runners threatening, a sharp comebacker to Happ resulted in a slick double play, extinguishing any hope of a rally. Outfielders made great catches look routine, and infielders flashed leather, turning potential hits into outs with grace and precision.
Despite the low score, the tension remained high throughout the game. Each pitch, each swing, and each play carried weight, knowing that one mistake could change the outcome of the game. But the pitchers held firm, bending at times but never breaking.
As the game entered its final stages, the score remained tight. The National League managed to scratch across another run, thanks to a sacrifice fly by Ronald Acuna, allowing Jose Ramirez to score, giving them a slim 2-1 lead. It was then up to the bullpens to hold the line.
In the bottom of the 4th inning, with the All-Stars trailing 2-0, Max Muncy was at bat. Facing pitcher Mikolas, Muncy managed to draw a walk on a pitch that was just wide.
Next up was Freeman, who hit a sharp ball back to the mound. Mikolas managed to knock it down and quickly threw it to first base. However, his throw was high, causing Bellinger to chase it down. This error by Mikolas allowed Muncy to advance to third base while Freeman stayed at first.
With runners on first and third, Yelich came to bat. He hit a hard-line drive to left field. Acuna, the outfielder, made a great catch, but Muncy tagged up from third base. Despite a “NO” call from the coach, which meant ‘don’t go’, Muncy misunderstood it as “GO” and decided to run for home. The throw home was not in time, and Muncy slid in safely under the tag. This scored a run for the American League, making the score 2-1. Yelich was credited with a sacrifice fly and an RBI, and Freeman advanced to second base.
The inning continued with Andujar replacing Suarez at the plate. However, despite some solid contact, the American League was unable to score any more runs in the inning. Harper struck out to end the side, but not before the A.L. had cut the deficit to one run, thanks to Muncy’s daring dash home.
In the ninth, the drama peaked. With the tying and winning runs on base, the crowd rose to their feet, every eye fixed on the mound and the batter’s box. But the National League brought in lefty “Closer,” Chris Sale, who showed nerves of steel. He induced a pop-up from Matt Chapman and then, with two outs and the game on the line, got Bryce Harper to fly out to right field, sealing the victory.
When the dust settled and the cheers subsided, it was Jose Ramirez who stood out among the stars. His early heroics with the bat earned him the Most Valuable Player Award, a bright spot in a game dominated by the men on the mound.
The 2019 MWBL All-Star Game may not have featured a barrage of home runs or a parade of runs crossing the plate, but it reminded everyone why baseball is so beloved. It’s a game where strategy, skill, and nerve intertwine, where a low-scoring affair can be just as thrilling as a high-octane offensive showcase. And on this day, the pitchers were kings.
FINAL SCORE:
NATIONAL LEAGUE 2 – AMERICAN LEAGUE 1
WP: J.A. Happ 1-0 (0.00)
LP: Patrick Corbin 0-1 (9.00)
SAVE: Chris Sale #1
MVP: Jose Ramirez went 2 for 3 with 2 Runs Scored, a Home Run, Double & RBI.
