The 1985 All-Star Game made history, but not because of the game itself. It was the first where an officially sanctioned Home Run Derby was held and the 46,000 plus fans, who paid two dollar each to watch the contest, loved it making it a new Midsummer Classic tradition. The 1985 Midsummer Classic was held at the Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on July 16, 1985. Pitching was the determining factor in this game as the National League dominated on the mound. This time, La Marr Hoyt, Nolan Ryan, Fernando Valenzuela, Jeff Reardon and Goose Gossage shut down the American League on five hits, one run and not a single extra-base hit. The American League managed just five singles and one unearned run as five National League pitchers, served up the heat. What made this feat even more amazing was the American League’s line-up featured Ricky Henderson, Lou Whitaker, George Brett, Eddie Murray, Cal Ripken, Alan Trammell, Wade Boggs, Dave Winfield, Jim Rice, Don Mattingly and Harold Baines.

The five players [Darryl strawberry, Jose Cruz, Rickey Henderson, Dave Winfield, Damaso Garcia] who stole five bases during the 1985 All-Star, set a new record for steals by both clubs during a Midsummer Classic. Pete Rose was upset about the designated hitter not being used during the All-Star Game and said before the game,” I don’t know why they don’t use the Designated Hitter. The pitchers never hit it anyway.” The “Refused to Attend” in the notes next to Joaquin Andujar are due to the National League’s Manager, Dick Williams decision to start La Marr Hoyt instead of Andujar. When Williams heard of the refusal he told the media,” I think the game will go on without him. We beat him in St. Louis the other day for our only win against them. I’m happy he showed up for that game.” La Marr Hoyt won the All-Star Most Valuable Player Award. The National League Defeat the American League 6-1.