Local product Kyle Schwarber named MVP of All-Star Futures Game

Chicago Cubs catcher Kyle Schwarber was named MVP of the MLB All-Star Futures Game, as the U.S. team won its sixth consecutive matchup against the international prospects.

Chicago Cubs catcher Kyle Schwarber was named MVP of the MLB All-Star Futures Game, as the U.S. team won its sixth consecutive matchup against the international prospects, 10–1. 

Schwarber, who grew up 40 miles north of Cincinnati in Middletown, Ohio, went 1 for 3 with a two-run triple in the third inning.

Nine U.S. pitchers managed to hold the international team to just one run, which came after a passed ball by Schwarber allowed a runner to advance into scoring position. Seattle Mariners infield prospect Ketel Marte then drove him in with a single.

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Washington Nationals prospect Lucas Giolito, a first-round pick in 2012, got the start for the U.S. and allowed two hits in two innings. Mark Appel, chosen by the Houston Astros with the first pick in the 2013 draft, pitched a scoreless inning for the U.S.

Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Josh Bell hit the game’s only home run, a two-run shot off Mariners pitcher Edwin Diaz. 

Gary Sanchez, a 22-year-old catcher in the New York Yankees’ system, was the only international player with an extra-base hit. Marte, Texas Rangers outfielder Nomar Mazara and Colorado Rockies outfielder Raimel Tapia each had two singles. 

- Dan Gartland