The excitement surrounding the 2024 Home Run Derby is building, as it has been confirmed to take place on Monday, July 15, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. This eagerly anticipated event is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET, and fans are already buzzing with anticipation.
Last year's winner, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., will be returning to defend his title. The 2024 Derby brings an updated format that presents a more intense competition right from the start. All eight participants will compete against each other in the first round. This round will see players each having up to three minutes or a maximum of 40 pitches, and they will be allowed one timeout to catch their breath and strategize. The four players who hit the most home runs in this initial phase will move on to the semifinals.
One distinctive feature of this year's competition is how ties are resolved. In the event of a tie, the longest home run will serve as the deciding factor, adding an extra layer of excitement and precision to the contest. Additionally, players can earn three bonus outs once they run out of their initial time or reach their pitch limit. There is also an enticing possibility for a fourth bonus out if a player manages to hit a home run that measures at least 425 feet during this bonus period.
As the competition progresses to the semifinals, the advancing players will be seeded 1 through 4 based on their home run totals from the first round, leading to matchups of the top seed versus the fourth seed, and the second seed against the third. The time and pitch restrictions remain consistent with the first round, providing a familiar, yet challenging environment for the players.
When it comes to the final round, the intensity ramps up even further. The time limit is reduced to two minutes or 27 pitches, accompanied by a single timeout. This shorter window will test the endurance and focus of each finalist, with the player hitting the most home runs emerging victoriously and claiming the prestigious title.
Among the new faces competing in this year's event is Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles, who will be making his first appearance in the Derby. On the other end of the spectrum, Los Angeles Angels superstar Shohei Ohtani has expressed a keen interest in participating, contingent upon receiving the necessary approvals. He shared, "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."
Unfortunately for fans of certain heavy hitters, not everyone is enthusiastic about stepping up to the plate this year. Houston Astros' powerhouse Yordan Alvarez has opted out for 2024, citing a lack of motivation. "Something I'm not super motivated to do at this moment," Alvarez commented. Additionally, Aaron Judge has made it clear that he will not be participating this year, leaving the door open only for a possible return if the All-Star Game were to be hosted in New York.
With a mix of returning champions, eager newcomers, and notable absences, the 2024 Home Run Derby promises to be a showcase of power, skill, and strategy. Globe Life Field will undoubtedly be alive with the crack of bats and the roar of the crowd as fans witness a beloved staple of the baseball season unfold in all its thrilling glory.