The excitement for the 2024 Home Run Derby is building as fans gear up for one of the most anticipated events in baseball. Set to take place in Arlington, Texas, Globe Life Field—the home of the Texas Rangers—will host the event on Monday, July 15, at 8 p.m. ET.
This year's format will see all eight participants compete in the first round, where each player will have three minutes or 40 pitches, whichever comes first, to hit as many home runs as possible. Each participant is allowed one timeout, adding a layer of strategy to the power-hitting showcase. The top four home run hitters from this round will move on to the semifinals.
A noteworthy feature of this year's competition is the tie-breaking mechanism. If players are tied, the longest home run distance will determine who advances, adding an extra element of suspense to the contest.
Bonus Time and Rules
After the initial three minutes or 40 pitches, each player will earn three bonus outs. Additionally, participants can earn a fourth bonus out by hitting a home run of at least 425 feet during the bonus time. The semifinal round will then switch to head-to-head matchups between the top four sluggers, setting the stage for dramatic duels.
The final round will also see a slight change in the rules, with participants given a time limit of two minutes or 27 pitches. The player with the most home runs in the final round will be crowned the winner.
Confirmed Participants
Gunnar Henderson was the first confirmed participant, announcing his commitment on June 30. Alex Bohm joined the lineup on July 5, adding to the growing list of eager competitors. One notable name that fans will be thrilled to see is Pete Alonso, who has been selected for his fourth career All-Star Game and will be participating in his fifth Home Run Derby. Pete Alonso has already won the Derby twice, in 2019 and 2021, making him a formidable contender.
Another player expressing interest is Teoscar Hernández, who is eager to showcase his home-run hitting abilities. However, some other notable names will not be partaking this year. Aaron Judge, who won the title in 2017, has decided not to participate. Similarly, Yordan Alvarez and Juan Soto, the latter having won the Derby in 2022, have opted out. "No, not this year," confirmed Juan Soto about his participation.
There was hope that Shohei Ohtani might join the list of participants, especially after expressing interest. However, Ohtani, who is recovering from elbow surgery performed in September 2023, said, "I'm in the middle of my rehab progression, so it's not going to look like I'll be participating."
Strategy and Anticipation
The strategic components of the Derby, including the use of timeouts, will add to the tactical depth of the game. Players will need to balance their energy and stamina to maintain optimal performance throughout the round, especially under the high-pressure conditions presented by the rigorous format and looming bonus round opportunities.
With a mix of experience and fresh talent, this year's Home Run Derby promises to deliver unforgettable moments. The anticipation is palpable as fans and players alike prepare for what is sure to be a night filled with electrifying swings and towering home runs.
Stay tuned as more participants are confirmed, and watch as baseball’s biggest hitters get ready to take center stage in Arlington, Texas. The Home Run Derby is not just a display of power but a celebration of the sport, bringing together fans and players in a spirited competition that showcases the very best of baseball.