Columbia Fireflies to host 2017 South Atlantic League All-Star game

The Columbia Fireflies and Spirit Communications Park will host the 2017 South Atlantic League All-Star game.

The announcement was made Thursday night on the same night the team accepted the 2016 Ballpark of the Year award from Ballpark Digest.

“Spirit Communications Park was built for an event of this magnitude,” Columbia Fireflies president John Katz said. “It has been 25 years since the last time the All-Star Game was in Columbia, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to showcase the dramatic growth and vibrancy that our community has experienced since then. Very few ballparks in Minor League Baseball can offer the amenities and fan experience we have here at Spirit Communications Park. We look forward to sharing this special night with our loyal fans.”

It’s the second time Columbia hosted an all-star game. The city hosted the 1992 game, which featured former New York Yankees pitcher Andy Pettitte.

The game will be played June 20. A home run derby and fan fest will also be held leading up to the game. Recent South Atlantic League All-Star Games have featured Major League superstars such as Bryce Harper, Giancarlo Stanton, Madison Bumgarner and Andrew McCutchen. Other past participants have included Hall of Famers Tom Glavine, Nolan Ryan, Ryne Sandberg and Steve Carlton.

“This is a huge honor for our city, new team and new ballpark,” said Fireflies managing owner Jason Freier. “It is a testament to the quality of what we are building here and to the enthusiasm and support we’ve received from the community. We are tremendously grateful.”

Information on ticketing for the All-Star Game will be available in the near future on ColumbiaFireflies.com.