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MLB All-Star Week Events Announced; Wright Excited To Host Game At Citi Field

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - New York City is gearing up for a party with Major League Baseball's All-Star Game at Citi Field less than three months away.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg welcomed Mets star third baseman and team captain David Wright and other fan favorites to City Hall on Wednesday as more details of the Midsummer Classic were unveiled.

Wright, a six-time All-Star, said he is thrilled to host the Midsummer Classic at Citi Field on Tuesday, July 16.

"Getting a little taste of what an All-Star Game is like in New York, playing in the Bronx a few years ago, it's revved up. It's above and beyond - and that's no offense to other All-Star Game hosts, but there's nothing that's comparable to playing in an All-Star Game in New York," Wright said.

MLB All-Star Week Events Announced; Wright Excited To Host Game At Citi Field

The game is surrounded by a week of events including a parade of players across 42nd Street and FanFest at the Jacob K. Javits Center from July 12 to 16. Wright was named MLB's official spokesman for FanFest.

"Baseball is in the blood of New Yorkers. If I had a vote, I'd have the All-Star Game here every year. I think that New York deserves that. New York has the most passionate, the greatest fans. And I've been very lucky, I've been very fortunate, I've been in six All-Star Games and I'd gladly trade all six of those in to participate in this year's," said Wright.

Former Mets Mookie Wilson, Edgardo Alfonso and John Franco have been named All-Star ambassadors and were also on hand for Wednesday's event at City Hall. Voting for the All-Star Game got under way on Wednesday.

MLB All-Star Week Events Announced; Wright Excited To Host Game At Citi Field

"New York knows how to throw a party and this is going to be something special and I already voted for David 15 times," said Franco, the former Mets relief pitcher and captain.

Mayor Bloomberg predicts all the excitement could be an economic grand slam for the city, estimating almost $200 million in extra revenue.

The last time the All-Star Game was held in Queens was during Shea Stadium's inaugural season in 1964. Citi Field opened in 2009.

Are you excited for the All-Star Game at Citi Field? Sound off in the comments section below...

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