Carolina-California League All-Star Game

The beach was so relaxing and refreshing that it made me forget about a very big event in terms of Baseball Road Trips. This wasn't intentional because if all of you could have seen the Oceanside beach I was at, you'd forget about the real world for a time too. Despite this, it was a very big event that I am so happy to recount for all of you.

I had been to an All-Star game before back in 2009 up in Portland for the Triple-A All-Star Game. I remember that game being so much fun and seeing all the teams of the International League represented, alongside the Pacific Coast League. Leading up to the game, I hadn't been to an International League game, but I like to think that the experience at the All-Star Game inspired me to plan the trip to North Carolina and hitting up the Durham Bulls. Make no mistake, I would love to take a week or two an do nothing but International League action, but that's a conversation for another day. On this day, the focus was on the Carolina- California League All-Star Game in Rancho Cucamonga. 

I saw an ad in the 66ers program at the beginning of the year for this game, and I knew I had to go. Sure, my affiliation is with the California League, but I couldn't resist seeing the Carolina League players. Representatives from teams like Lynchburg, Salem, Wilmington, and Frederick were going to be there. Teams that I had never before seen from the Carolina League were going to be there, and I definitely had to go.

I was really surprised to see such a large crowd come out for the game out in Rancho Cucamonga. I hadn't been to The Epicenter for a couple years, and I was reminded of how nice of a ballpark it is. The design of the park makes it seem bigger than it actually is. I am planning on going back to The Epicenter in early September to see my 66ers play against the Quakes.

There are ten teams in the California League and eight in the Carolina League. Every team was represented from both leagues, and seeing the eclectic blend of players on the field is probably what makes All-Star games great. An Inland Empire pitcher on the mound, a Rancho Cucamonga Quake playing first base, with a Modesto Nut in center field. On the flip side, a WIlmington Blue Rock pitcher throwing to a Carolina Mudcat catcher, with a Frederick Key shortstop. All the uniforms were different, but it made things a lot of fun.

The California League jumped out to a big lead and never looked back. They beat up on the Carolina League 9-2.

It is pretty obvious that I would very much enjoy a Carolina League road trip. Logistically, it would be tough as the league is pretty spread out and not easily accessible via public transportation. But, hey, maybe one of these days...

It is the 66ers/Angels Circuit this weekend. The 66ers are hosting Sotckton, and the Angels are playing the Mariners.

Always take on a 3-0 pitch ;)