The National League took control of the 2012 All-Star Game in Kansas City early on, scoring five runs in the first inning and winning 8-0 to take home it's largest margin of victory in the history of the event.
The NL pounded reigning American League Cy Young and MVP Justin Verlander, who looked less than average on Tuesday night against the senior circuit.
In the deciding first inning, Pablo Sandoval really got things going with a three-run triple. Surprisingly, that's the first time in All-Star game history that a triple has been smacked with the bases loaded.
Of course, one of the big story lines before the game was Matt Cain of the San Francisco Giants getting the start over New York Mets star R.A. Dickey, but it turned out not to matter. Both pitched just fine for manager Tony La Russa, who to nobody's surprise goes out a winner again.
Melky Cabrera was named the Midsummer Classic MVP, and it was well deserved. Cabrera went 2-for-3 with a two-run homer and two runs scored in the win.
As for the locals, David Wright went 0-for-2 while New York Yankees captain Derek Jeter and Robinson Cano each were 1-for-2 with a single. Curtis Granderson was hitless in two at-bats.
For the third consecutive year the National League will have home-field advantage in the World Series come October.
For more on the 2012 All-Star Game, please be sure to check out our blogs Pinstripe Alley, Amazin' Avenue and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.