It may be hard to believe but the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Game is already almost upon us. It’s been a terrific season thus far, with several intriguing storylines firmly instilled that should continue to entertain baseball fans over the next few months up until the conclusion of the campaign.
Of course, the annual All-Star break is a chance to reflect on all of that, as teams get their first and only extended break of the season. This year’s event will be taking place from Petco Park in San Diego for what should be an awesome handful of days, as the Padres’ home stadium is considered one of the nicest ballparks in all of baseball.
The All-Star break also serves as one of the most fun times of the year, especially when considering the excitement surrounding the Home Run Derby, which should be as good ever this season. It certainly seems that way based on ticket prices within the secondary market, as according to Razorgator, tickets to the 2016 Home Run Derby are averaging $484.37, with the get-in price clocking in at $173.
While none of the participants have officially been announced, fans can expect many of the league leaders to be involved in this year’s Derby, such as Nolan Arenado, Mark Trumbo, Todd Frazier, Robinson Cano, Edwin Encarnacion, Manny Machado and others. David Ortiz is another one of the sluggers hanging around the top of the home run leaderboard, so it’s very possible he may make a cameo in the Home Run Derby, with this being the final season of his decorated career. At the very least, he looks like he has a solid shot of making yet another All-Star team.
Those who might want to see Big Papi and the rest of this year’s All-Star cast will have to pay up, however, if they want to take in the action live in mid-July. In fact, based on the data provided by Razorgator, 2016 MLB All-Star Game tickets are currently averaging a whopping $1,016.93 on the secondary market, while the cheapest ticket is going for $380. That’s actually at least $200 more than each of the previous two All-Star Games, though prices can still fluctuate as the affair gets closer in the coming weeks.
Luckily, fans who are going to any of the All-Star festivities can at least save some money when it comes to their parking. ParkWhiz.com offers many great, cheap options on San Diego parking, with convenient spots available all around the stadium.
Of course, unlike in other sports, the MLB All-Star Game actually carries much importance in regards to the outcome of postseason. Depending on who is victorious, the American League or National League, the team representing said league in the World Series will earn home-field advantage as a result of the outcome of this game. That could wind up being pretty important, considering two of the last five World Series matchups have gone the maximum seven games, so teams would absolutely prefer to be playing at home in that decisive seventh game.
No matter the outcome, the All-Star Game and its festivities is always a fun time for everyone involved. While it’s undoubtedly pricey to attend, fans can at least expect a memorable experience when the All-Star break commences in about a month.
