Led by Atlanta Braves catcher Brian McCann's bases-clearing double in the 7th inning, the National League All Stars prevailed last night over their American League counterparts for the first time since 1996. Finally! I'm a lifelong National League fan and one of those baseball paleoconservatives that thinks the Designated Hitter rule an "abomination that causes desolation." So, for my league to win is less about the thrill of victory than it is about justice. Let's just say that last night, might was again in the service of right.
Much has been made of the American League's dominance of the mid-summer classic in recent years. Too much, I think. Sports scribblers and commentators have been far too eager to draw attention to the American League's long string of victories, as if it were the strangest of all phenomena in the history of the All Star game since it was first played in 1933. But their memories are too short.
In the 25-year period from 1961 to 1985, the National League won all but 3 games. (There was one tie.) In the 25-year span from 1986 until last night, the Junior League won all but 5. (Again, there was one tie.) So, for now at least, they're more or less even. With the National League's victory last night, has the tide turned again? I, for one, certainly hope so. Play Ball!
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