This year’s Home Run Derby is set to provide an exhilarating showdown at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. Mark your calendars for Monday, July 15, at 8 p.m. ET, as the Texas Rangers' home stadium welcomes some of the most powerful hitters in baseball to vie for the title.
The Format
The competition will commence with all eight participants battling it out in the first round, each given three minutes or 40 pitches—whichever comes first—to showcase their power. The top four home run hitters from this round will advance, setting the pace for a fiercely contested event.
For those fortunate enough to advance, ties will be settled by the longest home run distance, adding an extra layer of competition. Players will also receive three bonus outs following their initial three minutes or 40 pitches. A home run clocking in at 425 feet or more during this bonus period will award an additional outs, giving the sluggers even more chances to shine.
Thrills in the Semifinals and Final
The semifinals will feature head-to-head matchups, with the final four participants seeking to punch their tickets to the grand final. It’s a two-minute or 27-pitch limit for the ultimate showdown, where every swing will hold immense significance. The competitor who tallies the most home runs in the final round will walk away as the champion of the 2024 Home Run Derby.
Confirmed Participants
Rookie sensation Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles was the first to confirm his participation, making his announcement on June 30. On July 5, Alex Bohm threw his hat in the ring, adding to the excitement. Meanwhile, heavy hitter Pete Alonso, who boasts an illustrious Home Run Derby resume, is set to make his fifth appearance in the event. Alonso’s track record includes victories in 2019 and 2021, and his selection for his fourth career All-Star Game demonstrates his continued excellence at the plate.
Another potential participant generating buzz is Teoscar Hernández, who has shown interest in joining the fray. However, some notable absentees have already been confirmed. Aaron Judge and Yordan Alvarez have opted out of this year's competition. Judge, who clinched the title in 2017, has decided not to partake in the 2024 Derby. Juan Soto, the 2022 Home Run Derby winner, echoed a similar sentiment, succinctly stating, “No, not this year.”
Injury Concerns and Comebacks
One of the most intriguing storylines revolves around Shohei Ohtani. The two-way phenom initially expressed interest in rejoining the Derby but is currently recovering from elbow surgery performed in September 2023. He acknowledged, "I'm in the middle of my rehab progression, so it's not going to look like I'll be participating."
Anticipation Builds
Despite the absence of some star names, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an electrifying Home Run Derby. The blend of newcomers and seasoned veterans sets the stage for high drama and towering home runs that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Globe Life Field is primed to witness an event that encapsulates the thrill and essence of Major League Baseball’s mid-summer classic.