OSAKA -- Ryan Howard ignited the MLB All-Stars, and the visitors are a game away from sweeping Nichibei Yakyu.

News photo Philadelphia Phillies slugger Ryan Howard hits a solo homer to break a 2-2 tie in the eighth inning of Game 4 of the Japan-MLB series on Tuesday at Kyocera Dome. MLB won 7-2. KYODO PHOTO

Howard's solo shot in the eighth inning broke a 2-2 tie, setting the tone for a five-run rally as MLB beat the NPB team 7-2 Tuesday at Kyocera Dome, taking a 4-0 lead in the five-game series.