The 2024 Home Run Derby is shaping up to be an electrifying event, brimming with anticipation as it unfolds on Monday, July 15, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. Starting at 8 p.m. ET, fans across the nation will be tuning in to witness some of Major League Baseball's top sluggers battle it out for home run supremacy.
This year's Derby promises to be particularly thrilling with a revamped format that pits all eight participants against each other in the opening round. Each player will have three minutes or a maximum of 40 pitches, whichever comes first, to hit as many home runs as possible. Each competitor is allowed one timeout to regroup and strategize. The top four home run hitters from this round will advance to the semifinals.
A tie in the first round will be resolved based on the longest home run hit, adding an extra layer of suspense. Players can earn three bonus outs after reaching the initial time or pitch limit, and they can secure an additional fourth bonus out by hitting a 425-foot home run during the bonus time, adding a tactical nuance to the game.
Defending Champion and Key Participants
The defending champion, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., will be eagerly watched as he attempts to retain his title against fresh and familiar faces. One notable first-time participant is Gunnar Henderson from the Baltimore Orioles, whose performance will certainly be a point of interest among fans and analysts alike.
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels has expressed his interest in joining the Derby, albeit pending several approvals. "I have to get an offer (to participate) first. I'm also rehabilitating, so I need the doctor's approval and the trainers' approval and the team's approval. Of course, I have feelings of wanting to do it. I think any player would. I think it depends on how it lines up with the other parts,” Ohtani said, outlining the obstacles that might stand in his way.
Conversely, Yordan Alvarez from the Houston Astros has declined participation, citing a lack of motivation at this moment. "Something I'm not super motivated to do at this moment," Alvarez remarked, putting to rest any speculation regarding his involvement.
Aaron Judge has also opted out, sticking to his stance of only participating if the All-Star Game and Derby were hosted in his hometown of New York.
Semi-final and Final Rounds
The semifinals will see the top four sluggers seeded based on their first-round home run totals. The first seed will face off against the fourth seed, while the second seed will compete against the third. Much like the first round, the time and pitch limits remain at three minutes or 40 pitches, with one timeout for each player.
The final round ups the ante by reducing the time to two minutes or 27 pitches. Players will still have a single timeout to strategically gather their energy and focus. It will be a true test of endurance and power as the last two participants vie for the ultimate bragging rights of being crowned the 2024 Home Run Derby champion.
The build-up to the 2024 Home Run Derby is awash with excitement. The new format and the participation of some of the league’s most exciting talent promise an evening packed with towering hits and unforgettable moments. Baseball enthusiasts everywhere will be eagerly awaiting the crack of the bat, as these athletes showcase their prowess for the whole world to see.