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MLB All-Star Game 2012: NL Routes AL 8-0 To Lock Up Home Field For World Series

The National League jumped all over American League starter Justin Verlander in the first inning and never looked back to earn the All-Star game win, 8-0 and secure home field advantage for the National League team in the World Series.

Verlander gave up five first-inning runs in his first All-Star Game start and was tagged with the loss. Pablo Sandoval hit a three-run triple in the first to help chase Verlander. Sandoval's San Francisco Giants teammate Melky Cabrera also led the way on offense for the NL, scoring twice with two hits including a two-run home run in the fourth inning to blow open the game. That effort earned Cabrera the MVP award.

The Giants also had the winning pitcher, with starter Matt Cain earning the win for his two shutout innings to start the game.

Cleveland Indians shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera joined the game off the bench in the fifth inning when he pinch hit for Derek Jeter. Cabrera walked in his first plate appearance to load the bases with two outs but Ian Kinsler flied out to deep left field to end the threat and keep the AL scoreless. Cabarera struck out in his second at bat by Atlanta Braves right-handed reliever Craig Kimbrel.

Cleveland closer Chris Perez was one of four available pitchers that didn't pitch an inning for the AL.

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Photographs by spatulated, Triple Tri, and chrischappelear used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.