The MLB All-Star game has provided some of the greatest moments in recent baseball history. The game is packed with tradition and history. Tonight, Derek Jeter will play in his final All-Star game in his historic career, and there will be plenty of memorable moments. Here is a look at some of the greatest moments in the All-Star game in the last 20 years.
1999 — All-Century Team
Not only was the All-Star game in 1999 special because it was in Fenway Park, but it was special because of all of the greats that attended the game. With 31 living legends on the field as part of the All-Century team, it may have been the first time that many stars were on the field together at once. While the game ended in a 4-1 American League victory, the lasting moment of the game was Ted Williams, surrounded by stars, throwing out the first pitch to Carlton Fisk.
2001 — Ripken’s Last Classic
Cal Ripken Jr. was one of the greatest shortstops in the history of the game and someone who revitalized the position. But in his 19th and final All-Star appearance, he saved his best for last. After he moved to third base in his final seasons, Alex Rodriguez, the starting shortstop, paid tribute to Ripken by moving him back to shortstop to start the game. Later in the game, however, Ripken topped that special moment by homering to left on the first pitch he saw. He was named the MVP of the game.
2002 — The Tie
The 2002 All-Star game was a special moment in Milwaukee. The game was highlighted by Torii Hunter leaping up the right-center field wall and robbing Barry Bonds of a home run. But as the game began to wind down, managers ran out of pitching to complete the game. After 11 innings, a decision was made that the game would result in a tie. This decision not only upset fans, but it drastically changed the way the game has been managed and played. It also resulted in the current format, in which the winning team receives home-field advantage for its league in the World Series.
2008 — Marathon in the Bronx
There have been many historic moments in Yankee Stadium, and the final All-Star game played there was no different. After a tremendous pregame ceremony that included many Yankee legends, the game would not end. Finally, in the 15th inning, a Mike Young sacrifice fly drove in Justin Morneau to give the AL a 4-3 victory.
2013 — Exit Sandman
While it was not at Yankee Stadium, Mariano Rivera pitched in his final All-Star game in New York by playing at Citi Field. In his final appearance, he did not disappoint. He entered to his trademark song, “Enter Sandman,” and ran into an empty field and a standing ovation from players and fans. On the mound, he was unhittable, much like most of his career. Rivera faced three batters, allowing zero hits and breaking three bats. This performance earned him the MVP award at the end of the game.
Reference: Baseball Reference
Photo Credit: Getty Images
