Dow Diamond to host 2008 Midwest League All-Star Game

The Great Lakes Loons announced Friday that Dow Diamond will serve as the host site of the 2008 Midwest League All-Star Game. In addition, the Mid-Michigan region will host the various other special events associated with the all-star week.

“We are extremely thrilled to have been selected as a host site of the 2008 Midwest League All-Star Game,” said Loons’ President and General Manager Paul Barbeau. “This is a testament to our first-rate facility, Dow Diamond, and to the entire region of Mid-Michigan which has supported the Loons and the new ballpark so well. This is a great honor that we can all share.”

Barbeau made the announcement during the second inning of Friday night’s game against Ft. Wayne. It received a rousing ovation from a record-setting crowd of 5,677.

Details about a presenting sponsor, merchandise with the game’s logo, ticket information, and a schedule of events are still being finalized and will be announced at a later date.

The event is expected to have a significant regional economic impact.

“This is something that will not only benefit Midland, but the entire Mid-Michigan region,” Barbeau said. “It will also be a wonderful showcase for our ballpark and our community.”

The Midwest League All-Star Game was first played in 1964 and has been played every year since 1966. Notable alumni of the MWL All-Star game include Albert Pujols, Johan Santana, Joe Mauer, Dontrelle Willis, Miguel Cabrera, Jake Peavy, and Joel Zumaya.

This year’s All-Star game will be held June 19 at Elfstrom Stadium in Geneva, IL, home of the Kane County Cougars. Loons’ players Clayton Kershaw, Francisco Lizarraga, Eduardo Perez, and Miguel Ramirez have been selected by the league’s managers to represent the Eastern Division in the game.