BlueClaws to Host 2013 All-Star Game

It was a big day in Seaside Heights on Wednesday when the Lakewood BlueClaws announced they will host the 2013 South Atlantic League All Star Game.

BlueClaws General Manager Geoff Brown invited mascot Buster and the always popular running Eyeballs out to help unveil the big announcement of the June 18, 2013 date.

“We are proud to announce that in 2013, once again the BlueClaws, Lakewood Township and all of the shore will be host to the South Atlantic League All-Star Game,” Brown said.

He told a crowd at the boardwalk that next year's game would also include a Celebrity Hitting Contest on June 17. The rest of the All-Star events and parties would take place in Seaside Heights.

"When we learned of the opportunity to bring the game back to Lakewood, one of the first things we wanted to do was expand the event into two days," he said.

The last time the All-Star game was played in Lakewood was in 2002, when Phillie's star Ryan Howard and Mets staple David Wright were among the athletes to take the field at First Energy Park that day. The BlueClaws also broke their attendance record at 8,571.

Tickets for the All-Star game will begin to go on sale in phases, beginning with full and half season ticket holders on June 29. Mini plan holders will be able to purchase tickets on July 30. In the fall, tickets will become available for group outings.

For more information, please visit the BlueClaws online at: www.lakewood.blueclaws.milb.com.