MLB will reportedly change All-Star Game hosting criteria

Major League Baseball is moving toward changing the criteria for awarding All-Star Games, new Commissioner Rob Manfred told ESPN.

In an editorial meeting with the broadcast partner's reporters during his trip to Bristol, Conn., Manfred said he intends to change from a system in which the Midsummer Classics were typically alternated between the leagues.

"One of the things that I am going to try to do with All-Star Games is -- and we'll make some announcements in the relatively short-term -- I am looking to be in more of a competitive-bidding, Super Bowl-awarding-type mode, as opposed to [saying], `You know, I think Chicago is a good idea,'" he said in that Thursday session.

Sources told ESPN that All-Star Game hosts will be chosen in the future based on the merits of the city and ballpark, and which team and city can produce the best "All-Star experience."

The full impact of this change may not be felt immediately. Former Commissioner Bud Selig reaffirmed during the Owners Meetings in January that Major League Baseball would honor the commitments made to cities that were promised All-Star Games for building new stadiums. That means the Marlins and Nationals are in strong position to claim a host spot after Cincinnati (2015) and San Diego ('16).

Selig also noted that franchises that have extensively renovated their parks should also get consideration, which would cover Dodger Stadium and Wrigley Field.

Speaking at the National Urban Youth Academy on Wednesday, Manfred said he had no problem with having back-to-back All-Star Games in close geographical proximity.