UPDATE: In a thrilling conclusion, the Atlantic All-Stars defeated the Midwest All-Stars 5-4 in the Frontier League All-Star Game, held at Joseph L. Bruno Stadium on July 18, 2023. With 4,426 fans in attendance, the game showcased an electrifying comeback that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
Midwest surged ahead early, scoring three runs in the second inning. A hit-by-pitch against Keenan Taylor set the stage, followed by a double from Braylin Marine. Jose Alvarez drove in two runs with a single and later stole second, advancing home on Victor Castillo’s single, giving Midwest a commanding 3-0 lead.
However, Atlantic’s Jason Agresti, who was named All-Star Game MVP, ignited a comeback when he blasted a solo home run off Jack Eisenbarger, narrowing the deficit to 3-1. Midwest responded with another run in the third, courtesy of Marine’s triple and Alvarez’s RBI single, extending their lead to 4-1.
The Atlantic All-Stars refused to back down. In the bottom of the third, Ryan McCoy began a rally with a single, later reaching third after Will Riley’s double. Kyle Crowl’s groundout cut the gap to 4-2.
Momentum shifted in the fifth when McCoy singled and stole second base. Austin Dennis, a former ValleyCat, brought him home with an infield single, making it 4-3.
The decisive moment came in the seventh inning. Luis Acevedo led off with a single against Mitch White, followed by a hit from Stephen DiTomaso. Acevedo advanced to third and scored due to a throwing error by Victor Diaz. Ian Walters then secured the lead for Atlantic with a clutch single, putting them ahead 5-4.
Brandon Kaminer earned the win, delivering a perfect seventh inning. Cole Roland and Billy Duby added to the momentum with 1.1 shutout innings before Tyler Vail closed out the game. In a dramatic finish, Alfredo Gonzalez hit into a game-ending double play, allowing Vail to secure the save.
Midwest’s White was tagged with the loss, allowing two runs on three hits in just one inning of work.
Looking ahead, the Tri-City ValleyCats are set to begin a three-game homestand against Trois-Rivières after the All-Star break, with the first pitch scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Friday.
This captivating game not only showcased individual talent but also highlighted the spirit of competition within the Frontier League. Fans are buzzing about the thrilling performances, making this All-Star Game a memorable event.
