The last time the New York Mets hosted an All-Star Game, Joe Torre started at catcher for the National League, Juan Marichal got the win, and Roberto Clemente scored a run. It was 1964, and Shea Stadium wasn't gross yet. That changed quickly.
Almost fifty years later, the All-Star Game will return to the Mets' home park, now Citi Field. Major League Baseball officially announced the decision on Wednesday at a press conference in New York. Here is a press conference with New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Bud Selig, and Mr. Met:
I call that .gif "The Power Brokers."
The longest current All-Star Game drought is the Los Angeles Dodgers, who haven't hosted a game in 32 years. But special consideration goes to the Miami Marlins and Tampa Bay Rays, who have never hosted an All-Star Game, mostly on account of dilapidated multi-purpose stadiums. The Twins are reportedly gunning for 2014 consideration, but don't be surprised if the Marlins make a strong push too.