1973 All-Star Game

In 1973 the Midsummer Classic celebrated it's 40th Anniversary with a game that was special as it marked the final All-Star appearance of Willie Mays who many consider to be the greatest all-round performer in All-Star history. During his twenty-four appearances, he hit .307, had twenty-three hits, including three home runs, three triples and two doubles. More than just a threat at the plate, he was also responsible for many highlights on the field with spectacular defensive play.

As part of the festivities, surviving members from the first 1933 game attended including Carl Hubbell, Bill Hallahan, Lefty Gomez, Dick Bartel, Lefty Grove, Joe Cronin, Jimmie Dykes and Charlie Gehringer.

In keeping with the historical theme, the American League started out in the lead, but was unable to hold onto it. Trailing 1-0 in the third, the National League scored two runs and went on scoring steadily. Bobby Bonds entered the game during the fourth inning to replace starter Billy Williams then proceeded to smack a two run homer during his first at-bat in the fifth inning off California's Bill Singer. He secured his Most Valuable Player Award in the seventh inning when he ran out a lazy single for a very exciting double.

Many fans felt that the All-Star Game was becoming too predictable once again and many of their favorite regulars had begun to retire. This trend would affect the attendance and enthusiasm that surrounded the festivities, but a new group of up and coming superstars were about to give the game a new breathe of life.