The 2017 All-Star Game in Miami now has an official logo.
The brightly colored logo for the first All-Star Game ever played in Florida _ much less Miami _ was unveiled Wednesday at Marlins Park.
"I think Miami is a town that has a reputation for enjoying a good celebration, and we're going to have a great celebration with the game of baseball," said Major League Commissioner Rob Manfred.
The 2017 "midsummer classic" is set for July 11.
"I think the logo says Miami," said Marlins president David Samson. "When you look at logos of years past, you try to incorporate what the community is. And Miami is all about flair, it's all about color, it's all about just great entertainment _ and some hedonism, as well."
Samson said souvenir merchandise containing the logo went on sale Wednesday. Over time, Samson said, the logo will begin showing up on signs and billboards in South Florida.
Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez, who is a two-time All-Star, said having the game in Miami should be extra special.
"Being here, home in Miami, I think the fans are going to love it," Fernandez said.
Fernandez said it's too soon to begin day-dreaming about starting the 2017 All-Star Game in a ballpark where he's dominated. Fernandez has gone 26-1 in his career at Marlins Park.
"It would be great," Fernandez said. "I'd love to be a part of an All-Star team again."
Giancarlo Stanton wouldn't mind getting the opportunity to defend his Home Run Derby title in his home ballpark. The Home Run Derby is held one day before the All-Star Game itself. Stanton won it in San Diego two weeks ago.
"It's going to be sweet," Stanton said.
Manfred said the league is already working on next year's All-Star week format.
"I think, in general, we have continued to expand the number and scope of events, and I think you can expect a continuation of that trend," Manfred said.
Some pitchers, including Fernandez, have said they'd love to participate in a Home Run Derby devoted exclusively to hurlers.
Manfred said the league is exploring the idea.
"The pitcher's home run derby is sort of a difficult issue," Manfred said. "On the one hand, there does seem to be some fan interest. On the other hand, I think there's some reluctance on both pitchers and clubs because of the risk of injury. So we're going to have to look through that as the year goes on."
Fans can now begin registering for the opportunity to purchase full ticket strips to next year's All-Star Game by visiting AllStarGame.com or Marlins.com. Winners will be randomly selected, as available tickets will be limited.
