Robinson Cano’s extra innings homer prevents a Marathon All-Star game! “Crisis Averted”

(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Unlike its counterparts in other sports, the 2017 MLB All-Star game lacked offense and showcased a ton of defensive skill along with superb pitching. The American League pulled out the 2-1 victory with Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano hitting a go ahead home run in the top of the 10th inning off Chicago Cubs closer Wade Davis.

The Cano homer saved the All-Star game from repeating the controversial tie in the 2002 All-Star game that went deep into extra innings. While the teams combined for a whopping 17 hits, it was difficult for either team to put runs on the board with some of the best pitchers in the world on the mound.

Miguel Sano of the Minnesota Twins hit a bloop single in the fifth inning off Dodgers pitcher Alex Wood to give the AL the 1-0 lead. The NL didn’t take long to respond with Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina hitting a solo home run to tie it in the bottom of the sixth inning.

The small offensive outburst of those two innings were once again muted by outstanding pitching performances on both sides. Boston Red Sox and AL closer Craig Kimbrel got himself out of a jam with the winning run in scoring position and struck out Mets outfielder Michael Conforto to send it to extras.

Besides the game itself, there were fun and enjoyable moments such as outfielders Bryce Harper and George Springer being interviewed mid-game which hadn’t been done before. This unique perspective gave fans insight on how Harper and Springer set up in the outfield and other topics such as Harper talking about his Dallas Cowboys.

The All Star game filled what it lacked in home runs and offense with diving plays, bright-colored cleats, and mid game photo-ops involving Nelson Cruz, umpire Joe West, and Yadier Molina. Baseball went against the grain for how All-Star games were play and still ended with a great product in the end because of all that surrounded the game.