What happened: The Washington Nationals posted the phrase "all the stars are closer" across team channels on Tuesday afternoon. Major League Baseball's annual exhibition brings together elite representatives from both leagues at Citizens Bank Park.

Why it matters: The midsummer event marks the first time Philadelphia has hosted the showcase since the 1996 contest at Veterans Stadium. Participation in the gathering recognizes individual standout performances from the opening months of the schedule.

What to watch: Regular-season games resume across the majors on Friday as teams open their second-half schedules. Front offices have until the July 31 trade deadline to make roster additions for the playoff stretch.