ATLANTA – The 2025 MLB All-Star Game was full of excitement, drama, and memorable moments that will be talked about for years. From a thrilling Home Run Derby-style swing-off to the historic first use of the automated ball-strike system, the game offered a little bit of everything.
Ultimately, the National League triumphed in an intense and unprecedented swing-off after the game ended in a 6-6 tie through nine innings. Here are the winners and losers from a night of action that captivated fans and created lasting memories.
Winners
Tiebreaker Swing-Off
In what became the most electrifying part of the night, the swing-off was the real game-changer. Introduced in 2022, this new format was never used until now, but it provided a fresh and thrilling conclusion to a dramatic game.
The National League emerged victorious, with Kyle Schwarber’s three home runs securing the win. The swing-off, essentially a baseball version of a hockey shootout, proved that even as baseball evolves, it can still bring excitement in unexpected ways.
Fans who stuck around, even after the nine-inning tie, were treated to an adrenaline-fueled spectacle that reminded everyone why we love the game.
Kyle Schwarber
The Philadelphia Phillies slugger delivered one of the most iconic moments of the evening. Despite not recording a hit in the game’s nine innings, Schwarber stepped up to the plate during the swing-off and smashed three home runs in three swings, leading the NL to victory.
Schwarber’s power display was a reminder of why he’s one of the most feared hitters in baseball. With Schwarber heading into free agency at the end of the season, his performance in the All-Star Game showcased why he’ll likely be paid superstar money in the upcoming offseason.
Players Who Love Baseball
One of the unexpected takeaways from the All-Star Game was the passion displayed by players like Pete Alonso, who embraced the competition and showed true love for the game. While some superstars opted out of the festivities, Alonso was there, bringing energy and passion.
His competitive spirit, along with that of other players who enjoy the All-Star experience, stood out in stark contrast to those who treated it like just another break in the season. Alonso, in particular, took pride in being a part of the event, saying, “It’s an honor for me.”
Cal Raleigh
The Seattle Mariners’ Cal Raleigh had a breakout performance that made him a legitimate star in front of a nationwide audience. Raleigh, who entered the break with 38 home runs, had already established himself as one of the most powerful catchers in the game, but his Home Run Derby championship cemented his place in the spotlight.
His win added excitement to the game and gave the Pacific Northwest a new hero to root for, with his rise as one of the most exciting players in baseball this season.
Dino Ebel
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ third-base coach, Dino Ebel, had a memorable night for all the right reasons. Not only was he the pitcher for the NL’s swing-off participants, but his ability to deliver perfect batting practice pitches to Kyle Schwarber and Kyle Stowers resulted in home runs that helped seal the win.
The night was made even sweeter for Ebel, as his son, Brady, was drafted 32nd overall by the Milwaukee Brewers, making it a special All-Star week for the Ebel family.
Losers
The MLB Draft
The 2025 MLB Draft was held during All-Star Week, but it felt somewhat disconnected from the excitement of the game itself. While the draft is an important event, it was overshadowed by the All-Star festivities, especially given the lack of prospects in attendance.
Many top prospects did not make the trip to the draft, likely due to concerns about contract negotiations and the timing of the event. MLB’s attempt to integrate the draft into All-Star Week felt forced, leaving some fans feeling disconnected from the process.
Pat McAfee
Pat McAfee was brought in to host the pregame All-Star press conference and introduce the Home Run Derby participants, but his involvement left many feeling uneasy. McAfee, known for his loud and brash style, didn’t quite mesh with the more traditional baseball setting.
His attempts to add energy to the event felt out of place, particularly during the press conference where he mispronounced Ketel Marte’s name and struggled to handle a more serious line of questioning about the All-Star Game’s return to Atlanta amidst controversial voting laws in Georgia.
The Phillies’ Pressure
The Philadelphia Phillies entered the All-Star Week with Kyle Schwarber‘s free agency looming, creating pressure to make the most of the moment. With the Midsummer Classic being just weeks after the country’s Semiquincentennial celebration, the Phillies were expected to deliver a stellar performance.
Schwarber’s standout moment was a bright spot, but the looming questions about his future with the team and the pressure of representing the city of Philadelphia overshadowed some of the excitement.
