Whitecaps to host 50th MWL All-Star Game in 2014
COMSTOCK PARK, MI - The West Michigan Whitecaps and Fifth Third Ballpark have been honored with hosting the 2014 Midwest League All-Star Game.
The game is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 17, 2014. The event promises to be a grand affair, as the league is celebrating its 50th All-Star Game.
This will be the third time the Whitecaps have hosted the game in the team's 20-year history. The Whitecaps first hosted the game in 1995 and hosted again in 2003.
Many of Major League's best players have participated in past MWL All-Star Games, including Tigers superstars Miguel Cabrera (Kane County, 2001) and Prince Fielder (Beloit, 2003). All-time MLB greats Goose Gossage, Vida Blue, Carlton Fisk, Albert Pujols and Joe Mauer have also played in the game.
Whitecaps President Scott Lane said hosting the 50th anniversary game is an honor.
"This is a big deal for us," Lane said. "Not only are we hosting the Midwest League's premier event, but we're hosting it in its 50th year. We intend to put on a grand show for the fans, executives and players of the 16 teams in the league. We will showcase not only Fifth Third Ballpark during the two-day event, but West Michigan as well."
The Dayton Dragons hosted the game in 2013, when Whitecaps second baseman Devon Travis won the game's MVP award after going 2-for-2 with a three-run triple. Whitecaps first baseman Jeff Holm and pitcher Jose Valdez were also named to the 2013 All-Star team. Current Whitecaps player Dean Green was named to the 2012 All-Star team.
The only other Whitecaps player to win the game's MVP award was designated hitter Deik Scram in 2007, whose two runs on a hit, a walk and a stolen base earned him the honor.
Four current Detroit Tigers have represented the Whitecaps in past Midwest League All-Star Games: Ramon Santiago (2000), Don Kelly (2002), Hernan Perez (2011) and Bruce Rondon (2011).
The All-Star event will include much more than just the game itself. Details on activities surrounding the game will be announced at a later date. Ticket information will also be announced at a later date.
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