National League humiliate American League 8-0 in 2012 All-Star game in Kansas City - MLB Update
Centre-fielder Melky Cabrera and left-fielder Ryan Braun storm the National League into the lead right in the first inning as they humiliate the American League 8-0 at Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri on July 10, 2012 in the All-Star Game.
Game started following the customary formalities, while All-Stars from both Leagues were busy chatting and making fun.
Then, the much-awaited moment reached, with players assuming their positions on the respective places.
Meanwhile, a surprising move came from the National League All-Star Manager Tony La Russa, with a designated hitter Carlos Gonzalez being sent to kick off the proceedings.
The idea was to put the American League starter Justin Verlander under pressure, right away. However, the ploy did not work as far as the ability of Gonzalez to strike hits was concerned.
At the same time, what was being intended to be achieved was managed by the skipper Russa. That was of roughing-up Verlander and never allowing him get to his rhythm.
Despite maintaining hegemony through the first half in the American League, Verlander was made to look ordinary on the mound on Tuesday. His fastballs were meeting direct on the bat and were getting struck all-around the park.
Soon after Braun drew a double and sent Cabrera aboard, his confidence shattered. Though the American League staff walked up to him and talked, his rhythm which was absent from the very beginning was never seen in the game.
Rightly so, he was scratched after the first but the damage which eventually had to result into his loss was done. In just one inning, he gave up five runs and walked twice. These are the numbers which amply explain how forgettable the experience of All-Star
game was for him.
In contrast, his counterpart starter, Matt Cain was impeccable in first two innings, going scoreless and keeping the lead intact. Thus, he became the rightful winner of the game.
The Washington Nationals’ starting pitcher, Gio Gonzalez followed him on the mound. While this was the time the American League could go on a run-rampage and bridge the deficit, Gonzalez’s fastballs were just unplayable.
Thus, whatever resistance they put up was put to half befittingly as the National League reinforced years of their dominance over the American League.
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