2021 MLB All-Star Game returns to Atlanta

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The MLB announced on Wednesday that the 2021 All-Star Game will take place at SunTrust Park, the home ballpark of the Atlanta Braves.

"The 2021 Game will be the fifth one for the Braves and the third one here in Atlanta. We've not been here since the year 2000, and it's about time that we're back," said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred before Atlanta's home game against the Washington Nationals.

"I think it's going to be spectacular. I can't think of a better venue and what we have going on here with the Battery (Atlanta), the new ballpark. Let the world see what we have going on here. I think it's going to be a great, great event," said Brian Snitker, general manager of the Braves.

Rob Manfred, commissioner of the MLB /VCG Photo

This will be the third time that Atlanta will host the MLB All-Star Game, though in different stadiums. The first time was in 1972 at the Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium. Then in 2000, the All-Star Game was moved to Turner Field.

SunTrust Park is a new venue that opened in 2017. Commissioner Manfred said that the new stadium was one of the reasons Atlanta was picked. "Last, and maybe most important for us, the facility here, including SunTrust Park and the Atlanta Battery, is the best in baseball. Hats off to chairman Terry McGuirk for the development here."

The Braves will also become the sixth National League (NL) to host the Midsummer Classic in seven years – the only exception will be the 2019 event at the Progressive Field of the Cleveland Indians. In 2020, the All-Star Game will be at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.