Reading awarded 2012 All-Star Game

The Eastern League All-Star Game is returning to Baseballtown.

Eastern League president Joe McEacharn announced Saturday that the 2012 midsummer classic will be played at FirstEnergy Stadium in Reading, Pa.

"We are very excited to be bringing the Eastern League's showcase event to the fans of Reading," McEacharn said. "Fans in Baseballtown have been coming out to FirstEnergy Stadium for nearly 60 years and we are looking forward to thanking them for their outstanding support by putting on a great show for them next July."

Reading has not hosted the All-Star game since 1974, when the National Division defeated the American Division, 4-2. Future Major Leaguers Bill Nahorodny, Roy Thomas and Tom Underwood were among the Phillies' five All-Star representatives that year.

"It's an honor and a privilege to be able to host this exciting event right here in Baseballtown," R-Phils general manager Scott Hunsicker said. "This is going to be an amazing event for the Greater Reading area. The 2011 season will be remembered as the Rebirth of America's Classic Ballpark and now, the 2012 season will be remembered as the All-Star year."

Opened in 1951 as Reading Municipal Memorial Stadium, FirstEnergy Stadium underwent $10 million in offseason renovations. Added was a year-round climate-controlled team store, while ticket, concession and parking areas were expanded to include a performance stage as part of VIST Financial Plaza. Clubhouses also were enlarged, although players must still cross through the concourse to get to the field.

The R-Phils already have announced a schedule of All-Star-related activities. The All-Star Home Run Derby and Autograph Party will be held on July 10, with the All-Star Game set for the following evening.

This year's All-Star Game is set for July 13 in New Hampshire, which also hosted the event in 2008.