The 2025 MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta was a night to remember, featuring a thrilling conclusion and unforgettable moments.
For the first time in All-Star Game history, a Home Run Derby-style swing-off determined the winner, and it was the National League (NL) that came out on top, beating the American League (AL) 4-3 in the tiebreaker.
The format of the swing-off allowed three players from each team to take three swings each, with the team hitting the most home runs emerging as the victor. The AL got off to an early lead with Brent Rooker hitting two home runs, followed by a third blast from Randy Arozarena.
However, Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies stepped up in the swing-off with the NL down 3-1, hitting three home runs to seal the win and give the NL just its second win in the last 12 years.
Key Moments and Takeaways
Jesse Rogers highlighted the memorable moment when Kyle Tucker of the Chicago Cubs nervously took the field in left field, his first time there in four years, to cover for Clayton Kershaw, who was making his All-Star Game appearance — potentially for the last time.
Kershaw took the mound in the second inning, earning two outs before being pulled by manager Dave Roberts. A sliding catch by Tucker on the very first pitch of the inning was a fitting start to Kershaw’s appearance, and the crowd in Atlanta gave him a standing ovation.
David Schoenfield reflected on the thrilling AL comeback. Despite being down 6-0, the AL showed grit, rallying back to tie the game at 6-6. Although they ultimately lost, the exciting comeback proved to be one of the night’s most thrilling moments.
The AL’s fightback, including Rooker’s three-run home run and Bobby Witt Jr.’s tying run in the top of the ninth, made for an unforgettable spectacle.
Jorge Castillo praised MLB’s tribute to the late Hank Aaron, which included lighting, footage, and narration commemorating Aaron’s iconic 715th home run. The fireworks representing Aaron’s historic shot to left field added a deeply emotional moment to the game, with Aaron’s wife Billye watching on.
Jeff Passan couldn’t help but marvel at Jacob Misiorowski, the 23-year-old rookie from the Milwaukee Brewers. Misiorowski was the star of the night with his 98.1 mph slider and 100 mph fastballs, making a massive impact during his one inning of work.
Despite his limited MLB experience, Misiorowski was a force on the mound, with nine fastballs over 100 mph and no runs allowed.
Pre-Game Predictions
The analysts had different expectations for the All-Star Game outcome. Jorge Castillo predicted a 5-2 win for the National League, citing the superior lineup of the NL.
Jeff Passan also favored the NL, predicting a 3-1 win, noting the strength of the NL lineup, which was well-equipped to take advantage of pitchers thrown in for only one inning.
Standout MVP Candidates
Jesse Rogers had Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners as his pick for MVP, predicting that Raleigh would hit a home run, potentially multiple, in a game that favored long-ball hitters.
However, it was Pete Alonso of the New York Mets who ended up making a huge impact, hitting a three-run home run in the sixth inning to help the NL build an early lead.
The Most Exciting Matchups
Rogers was excited to see Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers face off against Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels right out of the gate. Skubal, a left-handed pitcher, has had success against Ohtani, who was just 1-for-9 against him heading into the game.
Meanwhile, David Schoenfield was all eyes on Misiorowski, whose 103 mph fastball and high-speed pitches were bound to make for a thrilling matchup.
A New Star Emerges
Alden Gonzalez predicted that Adrian Morejon of the San Diego Padres would make a name for himself in the game. The left-hander, who had been dominant with a 1.85 ERA, showed fans his ability to get outs and make an impact on the biggest stage, even if he didn’t have the same recognition as some of the more high-profile pitchers.
Passan also highlighted Misiorowski as a breakout star, especially after his mesmerizing performance. With a fastball consistently hitting 100 mph and the ability to mix in mid-90s sliders, Misiorowski proved that despite his lack of All-Star experience, he could hang with the best.
Reliving the Action
The 2025 MLB All-Star Game provided everything fans could hope for, from incredible plays and emotional moments to a thrilling finish that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
The National League’s victory, capped by Schwarber’s swing-off heroics, will be remembered as one of the most exciting All-Star Games in recent memory.
