American League wins All-Star Game, claims home field advantage in World Series

The American League topped the National League 4-2 at the 2016 All-Star Game in San Diego on Tuesday night, and with the win they claim home field advantage for the World Series.

Chicago Cubs star Kris Bryant provided the game’s first run with a two-out homer in the first inning. It was a good way to cap off what was obviously a fun week for the Cubs.

Unfortunately for them, that lead didn’t last long as representatives from the Kansas City Royals made a huge impact just one inning later. Eric Hosmer and Salvador Perez each blasted a home run in the second, knocking in a total of three RBI’s. Hosmer would tack on an RBI single in the fourth.

The National League wasn’t able to recover, failing to score another run after the fourth inning.

Of course, one of the big stories heading into the game had nothing to do with the contest itself. All eyes were on David Ortiz as he prepared for his 10th, and last, All-Star Game. The Red Sox slugger plans to retire after the season.

MLB Network Radio’s Casey Stern had a chance to talk Ortiz before the game.

“My family’s growing up, I want to be around,” Ortiz said. “Getting out of the game under my terms is something that means a lot to me.”

Ortiz went 0-for-1, but he was sent off the field by a standing ovation by a respectful crowd at Petco Park.

Before the game, MLB Network Radio was also able to catch up with Washington Nationals ace Max Scherzer. Scherzer, who would go on to throw three fastballs at 99 mph or above in a scoreless sixth inning, predicted how hyped he would be to hit the mound.

“The adrenaline is going to be absolutely pumping,” Scherzer said. “This is too much fun to go out there and compete against those guys. Everything is on the line.”

With the win, the American League now holds home field advantage in the upcoming World Series. Considering two Royals were largely responsible for the privilege, Kansas City is hoping to turn it on in the second half of the regular season and defend their World Series title come October.

Can they do it? Listen to MLB Network Radio on Ch. 209 as we break down the top story lines of the second half of the season.