National League Wins All-Star Game in Wild Home Run Derby-Style Swing-Off; Schwarber Named MVP
ATLANTA, GA – July 16, 2025 – The National League claimed victory in the 95th Major League Baseball All-Star Game last night at Truist Park, defeating the American League in an unprecedented Home Run Derby-style “swing-off” after the game ended in a 6-6 tie after nine innings. Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber was named the Ted Williams All-Star Game MVP for his heroic performance in the tiebreaker.
The game officially goes down as a 7-6 NL victory, their second win in the last three All-Star Games after a long AL dominance.
The National League jumped out to an early lead, with Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. getting on base for Ketel Marte, who delivered a two-run double in the first inning. The NL extended its lead to a commanding 6-0 going into the seventh inning, highlighted by a three-run home run from Pete Alonso and a solo shot by Corbin Carroll.
However, the American League mounted a furious comeback. Brent Rooker launched a three-run homer in the seventh, and Steven Kwan delivered a game-tying single in the ninth to send the game to extras, knotted at 6-6.
For the first time in All-Star Game history, a tie after nine innings was decided by a swing-off. Each league selected three hitters who took three swings apiece, with the league tallying the most home runs declared the winner.
The AL’s trio of Brent Rooker (2 homers), Randy Arozarena (1 homer), and Jonathan Aranda (0 homers) combined for three blasts. The NL’s turn saw Kyle Stowers hit one homer, but Kyle Schwarber stole the show. Schwarber, despite going hitless in the game itself, crushed home runs on all three of his swings, giving the NL the decisive lead at 4-3 in the swing-off before Pete Alonso even had to bat.
Other Notable Moments:
Robot Umpires Debut: The game also featured the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system for the first time in an All-Star Game. While human umpires made initial calls, teams had two challenges each to review ball-strike decisions. The system saw some challenges, offering a glimpse into the future of umpiring at the highest level.
Paul Skenes’ Dominance: NL starter Paul Skenes of the Pirates was electric, setting a new record for the fastest strikeout by an All-Star Game starter in the pitch-tracking era, hitting 100.3 mph.
Clayton Kershaw’s “Legend Pick” Appearance: Dodgers veteran Clayton Kershaw, a Commissioner’s “Legend Pick,” made his eighth All-Star appearance, tied for third-most all-time for a pitcher. He recorded two outs in a scoreless outing.
Hank Aaron Tribute: A moving tribute to the late Hammerin’ Hank Aaron was also a highlight of the night in his former home city.
The exciting finish provided a memorable conclusion to the Midsummer Classic before the regular season resumes later this week.
