The 2022 MLB All-Star Game was an impressive pitching showdown between two leagues full of aces and closers: the American League and the National League.
The American League allowed just two runs and struck out 10 hitters; while the National League conceded three runs and fanned 12 batters.
The game itself was close, 3-2, in favor of the junior circuit: in such a closely contested affair, it was evident that home runs would be the deciding factor.
That’s what happened.
The National League hit one round-tripper, in the first inning, by St. Louis Cardinals slugger Paul Goldschmidt.
But the three runs that the American League scored came via the long-ball, too.
Byron Buxton‘s blast in the fourth inning put the game at 3-2, and the score wouldn’t move after that.
The MVP Announced His Presence With A No-Doubter
Before that, however, the MVP of the All-Star Game made his appearance: New York Yankees star Giancarlo Stanton belted a game-tying, two-run homer off Tony Gonsolin, who ended up as the losing pitcher.
With the lone hit, a run, and two RBI, Stanton was selected as the most valuable player of the Midsummer Classic.
In the process, he became the third Yankee to do so.
“Yankees to win All-Star Game MVP: Giancarlo Stanton (2022), Mariano Rivera (2013), Derek Jeter (2000),” NYYmedia tweeted.
Yankees to win All-Star Game MVP:
Giancarlo Stanton (2022)
Mariano Rivera (2013)
Derek Jeter (2000) pic.twitter.com/iYidW42XAm— NYYmedia (@NYYmedia) July 20, 2022
Stanton became a star among stars with his impressive blast.
The most amazing part of it all is that his swing looks effortless, yet is packed with incredible power.
He hasn’t had the best season from a batting average standpoint, as he is hitting .237/.319/.516; yet his 24 homers remind us that he is one of the premier power hitters in the game.
Once the second half rolls around, he will return to his usual place in the middle of the Yanks’ powerful lineup.
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