The 2024 Home Run Derby promises to be an exciting spectacle as it returns on Monday, July 15, at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. Fans are set to gather under the Texas sky for an 8 p.m. ET start, eager to witness the power and skills of baseball's elite hitters. This year's Derby brings with it an updated format designed to ramp up the competition and keep fans on the edge of their seats.
New Format Enhances Competition
In a key change for 2024, all eight participants will face off against each other in a grueling first round. Each player will have three minutes or a maximum of 40 pitches to hit as many home runs as possible, with one timeout available to strategically catch their breath. This high-intensity round will winnow the field to the top four home run hitters, who will then advance to the semifinals.
The competition’s first round introduces an intriguing twist: in the event of a tie, the player who hits the longest home run will advance. Players can gain an edge with three bonus outs if they reach the initial time or pitch limits, and a fourth bonus out is up for grabs for anyone who can launch a 425-foot home run during this time.
Path to the Finals
Once the first round concludes, the remaining four sluggers will be seeded 1 through 4 based on their home run totals. The semifinal matchups will pit the top seed against the fourth seed, and the second seed against the third seed. Maintaining the same rigorous conditions — three minutes or 40 pitches per player, with a lone timeout — the semis promise to be thrilling.
The final round will see an increase in intensity. Players will have just two minutes or 27 pitches to claim the prestigious title. The reduced time heightens the drama, demanding precision and stamina from the finalists. The hitter with the most home runs in this decisive round will emerge victorious, earning the coveted Home Run Derby champion title.
Star-Studded Participants and Notable Absences
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the reigning champion, will be back to defend his title. His participation sets a high bar, considering his stellar performance in the previous Derby. New faces will join the fray, including Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles, making his debut in this electrifying event.
Shohei Ohtani, a standout player from the Los Angeles Angels, has shown interest in participating. However, his involvement hinges on multiple factors. "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 stated.
Not all stars are ready to step up to the plate. Yordan Alvarez of the Houston Astros has decided against participating in this year's Derby. When asked about his decision, Alvarez stated, "Something I'm not super motivated to do at this moment." Meanwhile, Aaron Judge has opted out as well, continuing his stance of participating only if the All-Star Game is held in New York.
As the 2024 Home Run Derby approaches, anticipation builds around the new format and the array of talent set to compete. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the event is shaping up to be a memorable showdown. Baseball enthusiasts from around the globe will be tuning in, ready to watch the drama unfold in Arlington.