Photo: Getty Images
With the MLB All-Star Game coming to the West Coast this year, the Los Angeles Dodgers have unveiled their plans for the weekend-long event, spanning from Chavez Ravine to the sandy beaches of Santa Monica.
Hosting for the first time in 42 years, Dodger Stadium had originally been slated to have the weekend extravaganza back in 2020 prior to the explosion of the COVID-19 pandemic. The season’s schedule was shortened, and the game was canceled. Last year’s game was moved from Atlanta to Denver due to some political complications.
Dodger Stadium, LA Live in Downtown Los Angeles and the Santa Monica Pier will all be backdrops for events starting on July 15th, with the game being played on July 19th.
“No city and no city’s fans have supported their team like the Dodgers’ fans have,” said team President Stan Kasten. “They are hungry for this game and they are very excited that we are finally going to have it.”
“I hope I make it,” shared Dodgers future hall-of-famer Clayton Kershaw, an eight-time All-Star. “All the road teams that come in and get to play here, they say what a great place Dodger Stadium is. “We’re excited to share it.”
Coincidentally, the Dodgers last hosted the All-Star Game 42 years ago. The significance of that number is deep-rooted in Dodgers history, as it was the number Jackie Robinson wore on his back when he broke the color barrier when he debuted with the franchise. Additionally, his widow, Rachel, turns 100 on the day of the game, so there will be loads to celebrate.
“There’s a lot of opportunity that came from Jackie and all the other players that kind of came through,” shared Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts.
To keep with the tradition of the weekend, the Home Run Derby will be played the day before the game on July 18th, the same day workouts will be held.
Baseball, softball, music and the red carpet will be set up at LA Live by Play Ball Park, where fans can come for activities and see their favorite MLB All-Stars strut with their families before making their way to Vin Scully Ave. Some indoor events will also be at the nearby convention center.
A couple of firsts: The Futures Game and celebrity softball game will be played on Saturday, and the MLB draft will take place on Sunday night on the outdoor plaza at LA Live.
From Friday to Sunday, the Santa Monica Pier and beaches nearby will have free events for fans to attend that include: Instructional youth baseball and softball, daily yoga classes and baseball-themed sand sculptures. Batting and pitching cages will also be set up for those interested in getting their reps in. MLB will join Heal the Bay to stage a beach cleanup on July 16th.