2001 ALL-STAR GAME

The 2001 Mid-West Winter League All-Star Game was held on Saturday Night, November 16th, 2001 in the home of the DeWitt Tigers.

Starting Pitchers:
Randy Johnson 27-3 (1.99)
vs.
Darryl Kile 19-7 (2.80)

2001 Mid-West Winter League (MWWL) All-Star Game Recap

The 2001 Mid-West Winter League All-Star Game was a spectacular showcase of baseball talent, held in front of a packed stadium filled with enthusiastic fans. The American League emerged victorious with an 8-4 win over the National League, further solidifying their dominance in the All-Star series with a record of 25-7. This year’s game was marked by early offensive fireworks, strategic defensive plays, and a standout performance by Alex Rodriguez, who was named the Most Valuable Player.

Early Innings: Offensive Fireworks Set the Stage

The game kicked off with a bang as both teams came out swinging. American League starter Darryl Kile faced immediate pressure in the top of the first inning. Lance Berkman led off with a solid single to left-center, setting the tone for the inning. Although Brian Giles followed with a flyout, Chipper Jones managed to reach base with an infield single, putting runners on first and second. The stage was set for Jim Thome, who delivered a towering three-run homer over the right-field fence, giving the National League an early 3-0 lead. Thome’s blast electrified the crowd and showcased his power-hitting prowess.

In the bottom of the first, the American League was quick to respond. Randy Johnson, the towering left-hander, took the mound for the National League but struggled to find his rhythm. Roberto Alomar led off with a double that rattled the right-center field wall. Ivan Rodriguez followed with a flyout, but Barry Bonds was intentionally walked, setting up a potential double play. However, Phil Nevin had other plans, driving a single to left-center that scored Alomar and advanced Bonds to second. Edgar Martinez then stepped up and delivered a clutch two-run triple down the right-field line, tying the game at 3-3. The crowd erupted as Martinez pumped his fists, clearly energized by the pivotal hit.

Mid-Game: Defensive Prowess and Strategic Plays

As the game progressed into the second and third innings, both teams showcased their defensive skills. The American League’s defense, led by sharp infield plays, managed to keep the National League from taking the lead. Kevin Brown took over pitching duties for the American League in the second inning and managed to hold the National League scoreless, despite allowing a walk and a hit batter.

In the bottom of the second, Luis Gonzalez provided a spark for the American League with a solo home run to right field, giving them a 4-3 lead. Randy Johnson, despite his early struggles, managed to settle down and get two outs with minimal damage. However, his outing was cut short as Robert Person took over in relief, tasked with maintaining the slim lead.

The third inning saw Mark Buehrle take the mound for the American League, and he delivered a strong performance, retiring the side in order. The National League’s defense continued to shine, with standout plays from their infielders preventing the American League from capitalizing on their opportunities.

Late Innings: A-Rod Seals the Victory

As the game entered the later innings, the tension in the stadium was palpable. The American League held a narrow 4-3 lead, and both teams were eager to seize control. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Alex Rodriguez stepped up to the plate with two outs and runners on first and second. Facing Keith Foulke, Rodriguez launched a high fly ball deep into left field. The crowd held its breath as the ball sailed over the fence for a three-run homer, extending the American League’s lead to 7-3. Rodriguez’s clutch performance not only provided crucial insurance runs but also earned him the Most Valuable Player Award for the game.

The National League attempted a comeback in the top of the ninth inning. Shawn Green led off with a solo home run to right field, cutting the deficit to 8-4. However, the American League’s bullpen, anchored by Billy Wagner, managed to shut down the National League’s offense, securing the victory.

Strategic Decisions and Key Performances

Throughout the game, both managers made strategic decisions that highlighted their understanding of the game’s nuances. The frequent pitching changes and defensive substitutions demonstrated their commitment to gaining any possible advantage. The National League’s decision to intentionally walk Barry Bonds in the first inning was a calculated move that paid off, as they managed to escape the inning with minimal damage.

Randy Johnson and Darryl Kile, both starters in the game, faced challenges early on. Johnson’s ability to settle down after a rocky start and Kile’s determination to battle through the first inning were testaments to their skill and experience.

Historical Context and Legacy

The American League’s victory in the 2001 MWWL All-Star Game added another chapter to their storied history in the series. With a record of 25-7 over the National League, the American League has consistently demonstrated its dominance in All-Star matchups. This year’s game was no exception, as they combined powerful hitting, strategic pitching, and solid defense to secure the win.

Alex Rodriguez’s performance will be remembered as one of the highlights of the game. His three-run homer in the eighth inning not only sealed the victory but also showcased his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. Rodriguez’s MVP award was well-deserved, as he played a pivotal role in the American League’s success.

Conclusion: A Memorable Showcase of Talent

The 2001 Mid-West Winter League All-Star Game was a thrilling display of baseball talent, featuring some of the game’s brightest stars. From the early offensive fireworks to the strategic defensive plays, the game provided fans with an unforgettable evening of baseball. The American League’s victory, highlighted by Alex Rodriguez’s heroics, further solidified their legacy in the All-Star series. As the players left the field for a standing ovation, fans were left with memories of a game that exemplified the excitement and drama of baseball at its finest.

FINAL SCORE:
American League 8 – National League 4

ALL-TIME RECORD:
American League 25 – National. League 7

2001 ALL-STAR GAME MVP:
Alex Rodriguez – who went 1/2 with a 3-run Home Run.
He earned his first All-Star game MVP.

National League All-Stars:

Manager:
Chris Douglass: Known for his aggressive in-game decisions, including numerous pitching changes and pinch hitters.
Players:
Randy Johnson (FNA): The starting pitcher who gave up four runs in one inning & a third innings.
Lance Berkman (FNA): Designated hitter who started the game with a single and reached base twice.
Brian S. Giles (BDB): Starting center fielder who flew out in his only at-bat.
Chipper Jones (BAL): Starting third baseman with two singles and a strikeout.
Jim Thome (DMH): Starting first baseman who hit a three-run home run in the first inning.
Shawn Green (BDB): Starting left fielder who later moved to center field. Hit a solo home run in the 9th inning.
Bobby Abreu (VAL): Starting right fielder who grounded out in his only at-bat.
Bret Boone (MIC): Starting second baseman who walked and grounded out.
Mike Piazza (FNA): Starting catcher who walked twice before being pinch run for.
Derek Jeter (MGH): Starting shortstop who struck out in his only at-bat.
Felix Rodriguez (GLG): Relief pitcher who pitched 1.1 innings, gave up no runs and struck out one.
Jamie Moyer (VAL): Relief pitcher who pitched one scoreless inning and allowed one hit.
Javy Lopez (WGE): Catching replacement who came into the game in the 2nd inning.
Rafael Palmeiro (MIC): First base replacement who came into the game in the 6th inning. Walked twice.
Ray Durham (MGH): Pinch hit for Abreu in the 4th inning and flew out.
Eric Chavez (VAL): Shortstop replacement who came into the game in the 7th inning.
Orlando Cabrera (VAL): Pinch ran for Piazza in the 2nd inning and stayed in the game at shortstop. Grounded out in his only at-bat.
Manny Ramirez (VAL): Pinch hit for Cabrera in the 7th inning and flew out.
Torii Hunter (FNA): Right field replacement who came into the game in the 4th inning. Grounded into a double play in his only at-bat.
Moises Alou (DMH): Pinch hit for Giles in the 2nd inning and popped out. Stayed in the game in left field.
Robert Person (FNA): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.1 scoreless innings.
Javier Vazquez (GLG): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.1 scoreless innings.
Matt Morris (MGH): Relief pitcher who pitched to two batters, giving up a three-run home run.
Roy Oswalt (HLW): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.2 innings, giving up one hit and striking out two.
Barry Zito (HAM): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.1 innings, giving up one hit and striking out one.
Dave Weathers (BDB): Relief pitcher who faced one batter, walking him intentionally.
Keith Foulke (HLW): Relief pitcher who pitched 1.1 scoreless innings.
Byung-Hyun Kim (MGH): Relief pitcher who gave up one run on one hit in 0.2 innings.
Jeff Cirillo (HLW): Third base replacement who came into the game in the 5th inning. Singled in his only at-bat.
Richie Sexson (VAL): Pinch hit for Chavez in the 9th inning and struck out.
Cliff Floyd (HLW): Pinch hit for Alou in the 8th inning and grounded out. Stayed in the game in left field.
Jose Vidro (LBT): Pinch ran for Thome in the 6th inning and stayed in the game at second base. Popped out in his only at-bat.

American League All-Stars:

Manager:
Stray Corrado: Known for his out-of-the-box decisions, including numerous pitching changes and lefty/righty matchups.
Players:
Darryl Kile (CHI): Starting pitcher who gave up three runs in one inning.
Ivan Rodriguez (FWP): Starting catcher who flew out in his only at-bat.
Jason Giambi (CBL): Starting first baseman who flew out in his only at-bat.
Roberto Alomar (CHI): Starting second baseman who doubled and grounded out.
Phil Nevin (CHI): Starting third baseman who singled and reached on an error.
Rich Aurilia (FWP): Starting shortstop who flew out and struck out.
Barry Bonds (CRH): Starting left fielder who later moved to center field. Walked three times.
Luis Gonzalez (CRH): Starting right fielder who hit a solo home run and singled.
Larry Walker (HWE): Starting center fielder who grounded out in his only at-bat.
Travis Phelps (FWP): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.1 scoreless innings.
Greg Maddux (IOW): Relief pitcher who pitched two scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out two.
Charles Johnson (CHI): Catching replacement who came into the game in the 6th inning.
Todd Helton (HWE): Pinch hit for Giambi in the 6th inning and struck out. Stayed in the game at first base. Singled in the 8th inning.
Jeff Kent (HOU): Pinch hit for Alomar in the 4th inning and popped out. Stayed in the game at second base. Flew out in the 7th inning.
Troy Glaus (MVM): Pinch hit for Nevin in the 5th inning and grounded out. Stayed in at third base. Grounded into a fielder’s choice and flew out.
Alex Rodriguez (CBL): Pinch ran for Gonzalez in the 4th inning and stayed in the game at shortstop. Stole a base and hit a three-run home run.
Sammy Sosa (DEW): Pinch hit in the 5th inning and struck out.
Vladimir Guerrero (MCM): Pinch hit for Pujols in the 8th inning and walked. Stayed in the game in left field.
Albert Pujols (HOU): Pinch hit for Cruz in the 6th inning and grounded out. Stayed in the game in right field.
Jose Valentin (DDO): Pinch hit for Sheffield in the 7th inning and grounded out. Stayed in the game in left field.
Billy Wagner (CHI): Relief pitcher who got the win. Pitched 0.2 scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out one.
Jon Lieber (MVM): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.2 scoreless innings.
Mike Mussina (HWE): Relief pitcher who gave up one run on one hit (a home run) in 0.1 innings.
Mark Buehrle (HOU): Relief pitcher who pitched 1.1 scoreless innings.
Octavio Dotel (HOU): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.1 scoreless innings.
Mariano Rivera (DDO): Relief pitcher who pitched one scoreless inning and struck out one.
Antonio Alfonseca (DEW): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.1 scoreless innings.
Eddie Guardado (IOW): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.1 scoreless innings.
Kevin Brown (FWP): Relief pitcher who pitched 0.2 scoreless innings, allowing two walks and striking out one.
Edgar Martinez (FWP): Starting designated hitter who hit a triple and scored a run.
Gary Sheffield (FWP): Pinch hit for Aurilia in the 4th inning and was intentionally walked. Stayed in the game in left field.
Jose Jr. Cruz (HOU): Pinch hit for Walker in the 4th inning and struck out. Stayed in the game in right field. Struck out again in the 6th inning.
Ichiro Suzuki (CAL): Pinch hit in 4th inning & flew out. Stayed in the game as the DH. Singled & stole a base in the 6th inning. Sac fly in the 8th.
David Eckstein (SSS): Shortstop replacement who came into the game in the 9th inning.