The anticipation is building for the 2024 Home Run Derby, set to take place on Monday, July 15, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The event, a highlight of the baseball calendar, will commence at 8 p.m. ET and feature a refreshed format that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
The defending champion, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., aims to retain his crown amidst a field of fresh challengers and seasoned sluggers. Noteworthy among the new entrants is Gunnar Henderson from the Baltimore Orioles, who will be participating in the Derby for the first time. His debut adds an intriguing new dimension to the competition.
Another major talking point is Shohei Ohtani from the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani, an electrifying presence in baseball, has expressed his interest in joining the Derby. However, his participation hinges on 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.
While the lineup boasts new faces, some established stars have opted to sit out this year. Yordan Alvarez of the Houston Astros has decided against participating, citing a lack of motivation. "Something I'm not super motivated to do at this moment," said Alvarez. Similarly, Aaron Judge will not be participating unless the All-Star Game is hosted in New York, a significant disappointment for fans hoping to see him add to his home run legacy.
A New Format for 2024
This year's Derby has introduced an updated format where all eight participants will clash head-to-head in a thrilling first round. Each player will have three minutes or a maximum of 40 pitches to hit as many home runs as possible, with one strategic timeout available to regain composure. The top four sluggers based on home run counts will advance to the semifinals, setting up an intense battle for a spot in the finals.
The new rules also include a clever tie-breaking mechanism: in the event of a tie, the longest home run hit during the round will determine who moves on. Furthermore, players can earn three bonus outs after the initial time or pitch limit, with a fourth bonus out granted for hitting a 425-foot home run during the bonus time.
Semifinals and Finale
In the semifinal round, the four advancing players will be seeded based on their first-round home run totals. The top seed will take on the fourth seed, and the second seed will compete against the third seed. The same three-minute or 40-pitch limit, along with one timeout, will apply, ensuring consistent rules throughout the competition.
The final round sees a reduction in both time and pitches, with players limited to two minutes or 27 pitches and a single timeout. This ultimate showdown will determine who can maintain their power and poise under pressure to emerge as the 2024 Home Run Derby champion.
The blend of seasoned champions, ambitious debutants, and a revamped format promises a Derby filled with drama and excitement. As the baseball world turns its eyes to Arlington, fans can expect a night of towering home runs and unforgettable moments.