The 2025 MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park was decided by the inaugural Home Run Derby swing-off, where the National League narrowly defeated the American League 7-6. After nine innings ended in a 6-6 tie, both leagues selected three hitters for a mini derby, aiming to break the deadlock with their power hitting.
Brent Rooker of the Oakland Athletics led the American League hitters with two home runs, while Miami Marlins’ Kyle Stowers answered with one homer for the National League side. The AL briefly took control again when Seattle Mariners’ Randy Arozarena extended their lead to 3-1 in the swing-off.
Kyle Schwarber’s Game-Changing Performance Behind the Plate
The decisive moment came when Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Kyle Schwarber approached the plate. Assisted by Los Angeles Dodgers third base coach Dino Ebel, who pitched to him during the showdown, Schwarber delivered three consecutive home runs, turning the tide and securing a 4-3 lead for the National League.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised Ebel’s contribution to the memorable swing-off:
Yeah, there you go. Put a ‘W’ next to Dino’s name in the paper,
Roberts said.
Well, there’s no more papers anymore, but Dino should get the win. Absolutely.
Ebel is well-versed in batting practice pitching, particularly for the Dodgers, and brings considerable know-how from previous Home Run Derby experiences, including last year’s event where he worked with Teoscar Hernández, who became the first Dodgers player to win the derby. Schwarber acknowledged how Ebel’s pitching helped him stay focused under pressure, recalling their prior connection from the World Baseball Classic.
Luckily, I’ve faced Dino in the World Baseball Classic. He was on the coaching staff. He’s got great BP,
Schwarber said.
A lot of credit goes to him, too, just kind of getting thrown into the firestorm there and not being rattled by it, being able to keep pumping really good strikes to us. Having the familiarity, and he asked me right before, he was like, ‘Where do you want it?’ I’m like, just middle. And he’s like, ‘I gotcha.’
So a lot of credit goes to him, too, for the National League bringing it home.
Schwarber’s Readiness and Unexpected Opportunity to Shine
When Dodgers manager Dave Roberts approached Schwarber about participating in the swing-off in the event of a tie, Schwarber accepted without hesitation—though he did not expect the game to end evenly. As the ninth inning unfolded, the tension mounted with crucial plays, including a defensive stop from teammate Matt, which Schwarber believed might have sealed the victory.
Dave pretty much just asked, ‘If there’s a tie, would you do it?’ I said, absolutely,
he recalled.
Not thinking that we were going to end up in a tie when you say yes. And then as the game’s going, you’re looking at the score, you’re not really thinking the game’s going to end in a tie. This guy slaps some good at-bats there on some of our guys in the ninth inning, too. Had a good hustle play to get down to first.
I thought that Matt with that big defensive play there in the ninth, kind of the diving backhand was going to seal it for us. But had a good hustle play. Then we were tied. Frickin’ broke my bat in the ninth off a 100-mile-an-hour sinker. Well, I have to go get a new bat now. Went up, got the new bat, waited my turn.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 All-Star Game in Philadelphia
Following his standout performance and being named the 2025 All-Star Game MVP, Schwarber has shifted his focus to next year’s Midsummer Classic, which will take place in Philadelphia. He anticipates an electric atmosphere fueled by passionate fans and strong local support.
We were actually talking about it today, that it’s going to be an exciting time in Philly next year when this is going to be coming there,
Schwarber said.
He acknowledged the enthusiasm of the Philadelphia fanbase and their love for high-stakes contests, foreseeing spirited interactions with division rivals. Schwarber is confident the city will host a memorable event.
But it will be a great time overall. I know that they love big games. They love high stakes. I think that’s something that our fans in Philly are going to really enjoy next year.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Kyle Schwarber leave the game?
A. Schwarber left the game because his left elbow was hurting. Afterward, manager Rob Thomson described it as a bruise and hyperextension of the elbow.
Q. Does Kyle Schwarber walk a lot?
A. Actually, none of the other Phillies hitters reached 10 walks in May. This is what Philadelphia has in Schwarber—a powerful hitter. Although he strikes out often, he balances it by earning many walks. This season is no different. In 59 games, he’s had a batting average of 266/.
Q. How many times has Kyle Schwarber struck out in his career?
A. In 160 games, Schwarber had a .197 batting average, hit 47 home runs, and earned 104 RBIs. He also walked 126 times and struck out a league-high 215 times. Schwarber had 720 plate appearances, the most for any player ending a season with a batting average below .200, known as the Mendoza Line.
Q. How many times has Kyle Schwarber struck out?
A. He had a batting average of .197 and hit 47 home runs. He drove in 104 runs and walked 126 times. He also struck out the most in MLB with 215 strikeouts.