This one was never even a contest. The National League dominated from the start, scoring five times in the first inning of the 2012 All-Star Game in Kansas City and winning 8-0. The margin was the NL's largest in the history of the Midsummer Classic.
The NL hammered reigning American League Cy Young and MVP Justin Verlander, who looked extremely mediocre Tuesday night.
In the pivotal first inning, Pablo Sandoval blew the game open with a three-run triple. Believe it or not, that's the first time in All-Star game history that a triple has been hit with the bases loaded.
One of the big story lines before the game was Matt Cain of the San Francisco Giants getting the starting nob instead of New York Mets pitcher R.A. Dickey, but it ended up being a non-issue. Both pitched very effectively for manager Tony La Russa, who just adds another win to his resume.
Melky Cabrera was named the MVP, going 2-for-3 with a two-run homer and two runs scored in the win.
As for the Philadelphia Phillies in the game, Cole Hamels pitched a scoreless inning while Carlos Ruiz went hitless in one at-bat. Jonathan Papelbon also recorded the final out.
Once again, the National League will have home-field advantage in the World Series come October
For more on the 2012 All-Star Game, please be sure to check out our blog The Good Phight and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates..