MLB All-Star Game 2014: Mike Trout Wins MVP As AL Win 5-3, Derek Jeter Says Goodbye
By Micky Shaked
Jul 15, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; National League outfielder Yasiel Puig (66) of the Los Angeles Dodgers jokes around with pitcher Johnny Cueto (right) of the Cincinnati Reds before the 2014 MLB All Star Game at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Final stats: 0-for-3, three strikeouts, one left-on-base
Yasiel Puig had an All-Star experience to forget.
The Cuban outfielder appeared desperate to make amends for quietly bowing out of the Home Run Derby with zero bombs. Batting second behind reigning NL MVP Andrew McCutchen, Puig made trips to the plate in the first, third and fifth innings.
First inning: McCutchen leads off with an infield single, barely beating Jeter’s throw on an incredible diving stop to his left. He advances to second on a wild pitch. Facing AL starter Felix Hernandez, Puig promptly strikes out swinging for the first out of the game.
In the bottom half of the frame, Puig misplays Mike Trout’s bomb to right-center. Attempts to turn his body at the last minute realizing he’s too far right, and the ball bounces of the wall. Jeter, who doubled to lead off the inning, scores as Mike Trout slides safely into third for a triple.
Solid start.
Third inning: Leading off the inning against Yu Darvish, Puig gets fooled and strikes out looking.
Third at-bat: Facing Max Scherzer with one out, Puig caps his consistent night with a third strikeout, second one swinging.