Paul Goldschmidt Makes His First All-Star Appearance

The National League finished with a total of three hits in Tuesday night’s loss to the American League in the All-Star Game. One of those hits, however, came off the bat of Arizona Diamondbacks’ first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. The star slugger, who was making his debut as an All-Star came into the game in the fifth inning, replacing Joey Votto of the Cincinnati Reds. Goldy, who went 1-for-2, played the rest of the game.

Jul 16, 2013; Flushing, NY, USA; National League first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (44) of the Arizona Diamondbacks reacts after hitting a double against the American League during the ninth inning of the 2013 All Star Game at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

In his first at-bat, which came in the seventh inning, he ripped the ball down the third base line. Baltimore Orioles’ third baseman, Manny Machado made an impressive play, however, fielding the ball deep and making a strong throw to first, just in time to get the hustling Goldschmidt.

Goldy’s final at-bat came in the bottom of the ninth with the NL down to their final out. He drilled a double off of Texas Rangers’ closer Joe Nathan, giving his squad one last breath of life. Pedro Alvarez of the Pittsburgh Pirates stepped up the plate, but ended the game with an infield pop-out.

Paul Goldschmidt is having a breakout season. He is currently batting .313, to go along with 21 homers and an NL-leading 77 RBIs. Not only did he provide the National League with hope in this year’s Midsummer Classic, but a lot of the D-Backs’ future success rests on the shoulders of the 25 year-old stud.