Mixed Reception for Former Pirates at the 65th Annual All-Star Game

Strategic Insights -

Pittsburgh's love-hate relationship with its former stars was on full display at the 65th annual All-Star Game, where Doug Drabek and Barry Bonds received a mixed reception from the crowd. Bonds, a two-time MVP with the Pirates, was booed throughout the game, while Drabek, a former Pirate and Cy Young Award winner, received a warm ovation. However, neither player could help their respective teams win, with the National League eventually emerging victorious.

Key Takeaways:

  • Doug Drabek, a former Pirate and Cy Young Award winner, received a warm ovation from the crowd, but was less fortunate on the field, giving up a three-run lead in the ninth inning.
  • Barry Bonds, a two-time MVP with the Pirates, was booed throughout the game, receiving a mixed reaction from the crowd that was once so fond of him.
  • The National League team, featuring both Drabek and Bonds, went on to win the game 8-7 in extra innings, snapping a six-game losing streak in All-Star Games.
  • Moises Alou of the Expos provided the heroics for the National League, doubling in the winning run off Jason Bere of the White Sox in the bottom of the 10th inning.
  • Doug Drabek expressed his pride and desire to give a good showing, despite the National League's winning streak coming to an end.

Statistics:

  • The crowd of 59,568 at the All-Star Game gave a warm ovation to Doug Drabek, but booed Barry Bonds throughout the game.
  • Doug Drabek gave up a three-run lead in the ninth inning, with the National League eventually emerging victorious 8-7 in extra innings.
  • The National League team has now snapped a six-game losing streak in All-Star Games.
  • Moises Alou went 2-for-3 with a double, including the game-winning hit in the bottom of the 10th inning.

Sources:

  • The New York Times, July 17, 1996
  • AP News, July 1996