National League defeats American League, 2-0 in 13, in 58th All-Star Game in Oakland, California.

On July 14, 1987, baseball fans gathered at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland, California, to witness the 58th All-Star Game between the American League and the National League. This highly anticipated event showcased the best players from both leagues, vying for supremacy on the diamond. In a thrilling match-up, the National League emerged victorious with a 2-0 win in 13 innings.

The All-Star Game is an annual exhibition contest that brings together top players from the American League and the National League. It is a celebration of the sport of baseball and allows fans to see their favorite stars in action. In 1987, the game took place in Oakland, which added to the excitement as fans in the area came out in large numbers to support their favorite players.

Both teams boasted an impressive lineup, filled with future Hall of Famers and renowned athletes. The American League, managed by Minnesota Twins’ Tom Kelly, had talented players such as George Brett, Cal Ripken Jr., and Kirby Puckett. On the other side, the National League, managed by St. Louis Cardinals’ Whitey Herzog, featured stars like Andre Dawson, Ozzie Smith, and Tony Gwynn.

The game started off as a tightly contested affair, with both teams showcasing their defensive prowess. The pitchers on both sides dominated, not allowing any runs for the first nine innings. It was a classic battle of attrition, with each team trying to gain an advantage over the other.

As the game entered extra innings, the tension mounted, and the competitive spirit of the players intensified. In the top of the 13th inning, the National League finally broke the deadlock. Tim Raines of the Montreal Expos led off with a triple, setting the stage for a potential breakthrough. With Raines on third, the next batter up was N.L. batting champion Tim Hulett, who hit a sacrifice fly to left field, allowing Raines to score the go-ahead run.

With a 1-0 lead, the National League didn’t stop there. They added another run when Mike Schmidt of the Philadelphia Phillies hit a single, bringing home Dale Murphy of the Atlanta Braves. The N.L. now had a 2-0 advantage, putting the pressure on the American League to mount a comeback.

In the bottom of the 13th inning, the American League desperately tried to rally, but they were unable to overcome the solid pitching and fielding of the National League. The N.L. pitchers, including Lee Smith and Jeff Reardon, closed out the game without allowing a run, securing the victory for their team.

The 1987 All-Star Game will be remembered as a showcase of baseball excellence. It was a game filled with thrilling moments, exceptional performances, and great sportsmanship. The National League’s victory in extra innings highlighted the competitive nature of the game, while also emphasizing the talent and skill of the players on display.

Overall, the 58th All-Star Game in 1987 provided fans with an unforgettable experience. It demonstrated why baseball is often referred to as America’s pastime, captivating audiences with its blend of strategy, skill, and raw excitement. The event showcased the best players of the time, immortalizing their talents in baseball history.