Mlb, National League | featured news

Pablo Sandoval hit a bases-loaded triple off Justin Verlander during a five-run first inning, and the National League romped to an 8-0 victory over the American League in the All-Star game Tuesday night.

Heath Bell sprinted in from the bullpen and slid across the infield grass, tearing up the turf just short of the mound. It was that type of night: The National League never stopped moving.

The San Francisco Giants advanced to the World Series by beating the Philadelphia Phillies 3-2 on Saturday to clinch the National League Championship Series.

Brian McCann, Scott Rolen or Heath Bell might really appreciate what happened on this July night come October. Charlie Manuel, too. An All-Star win the National League thought was long overdue. And with it, home-field advantage in the World Series.