Jordin Sparks up to bat: From the celeb all-star game to the MLB anthem

"American Idol's" Jordin Sparks is down thirty pounds, and she's staying active... and in front of the camera. Sparks participated in the recent Celebrity All-Star game, where she let her competitive side shine. "I feel like I did as well as I could have, having not really any practice prior to coming here and to being one of the only girls on the team," she told CBS Sports. "We had a pretty good team set up so it was good but I had a lot of fun out there. I mean, you can't beat being at home and getting to play on your home team's field, so it was fun."

She had a bit of trouble at the beginning of the game, but she solved the problem. "The first bat I picked up was super super heavy," she says. "It just took me forever to swing, so I actually got a softball bat, which is what I was supposed to use, but I didn't know if I could grab it at first so I was glad that they let me switch bats."

On Tuesday night, Sparks had the opportunity to sing the National Anthem for the MLB All-Star game in Phoenix. When asked whether she was more excited to play or to sing, she hesitated. "That's hard to say because I don't get to play games or sports very often anymore, so when I do I jump at the chance, but to sing the nation's song is always a big honor for me so I can't wait."

You can hear her sing the national anthem - and see her newly svelte physique - in the video below.