The Los Angeles Dodgers were awarded the 2020 MLB All-Star Game back in April of 2018, and they welcomed the likes of commissioner Rob Manfred, Vin Scully, Dave Roberts and Justin Turner, among others, for an event to unveil the logo last July.
The Dodgers also used that press conference to announce details of a Dodger Stadium renovation project that was said to cost in the neighborhood of $100 million. The forthcoming amenities and All-Star Game represented highlights on the 2020 calendar.
But less than a year later, the MLB season resides in a state of limbo as the league and world continue to grapple with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. On Monday, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred delayed Opening Day beyond the initial suspension that pushed it to April 9.
With a start not until the middle of May — in a best-case scenario — the status of the All-Star Game at Dodger Stadium may soon come into question. According to Bill Shaikin of the L.A. Times, MLB at present time could only commit to hopefully playing Midsummer Classic being in Los Angeles:
On Monday, the league said only that it remains hopeful of playing the All-Star Game in Los Angeles this year.
Manfred’s decision on Monday stemmed from the Centers for Disease and Prevent (CDC) recommending all gatherings of 50 or more people be cancelled for at least the next eight weeks.
“MLB will keep fans updated on decisions regarding plans for the 2020 schedule in the days and weeks ahead,” a portion of the league’s statement read.
“The Clubs remain committed to playing as many games as possible when the season begins. We will continue to monitor ongoing events and undertake the precautions and best practices recommended by public health experts, and urge all baseball fans to follow suit. MLB extends its best wishes to all the individuals and communities who have been impacted by the coronavirus.”
The Dodgers previously hosted the MLB All-Star Game in 1959 and 1980. Since it was played at Dodger Stadium, a California team has hosted the Midsummer Classic seven times: California/Los Angeles Angels (1989, 2010), San Diego Padres (1992, 2016) and San Francisco Giants (1984, 2007). A total of nine teams have twice played host during that same stretch.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our live shows, and more!
