MLB Stages 5-Minute America 250 Tribute at 96th All-Star Game
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 15
MLB Stages 5-Minute America 250 Tribute at 96th All-Star Game
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 15
Summary
MLB paused the 96th All-Star Game in Philadelphia for a five-minute tribute linking baseball history with American history as part of the America 250 theme.
JK Simmons narrated the interlude over Ray Charles' “America the Beautiful,” ending with George W. Bush's post-9/11 first pitch at Yankee Stadium after a montage of iconic baseball moments.
Citizens Bank Park then turned the tribute into a live spectacle as kids rode onto the field in a Sandlot-style scene, players joined them with sparklers, and fireworks erupted from the stadium roof.
The ceremony gave the 2026 showcase a broader purpose than a typical All-Star exhibition, framing the event as a celebration of baseball's place in U.S. culture as the country nears its 250th anniversary.