As the countdown to the 2024 Home Run Derby begins, baseball fans across the globe are eagerly anticipating one of the sport's most thrilling events. Scheduled for July 15, this year’s Derby will unfold under the bright lights of Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, the home of the Texas Rangers. This iconic stadium, known for its advanced facilities, is expected to host an electrifying contest that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
The Format and Schedule
The show will blast off at 8 p.m. ET, featuring a lineup of eight participants, each battling to showcase their power-hitting prowess. In the first round, every contender will have three minutes or 40 pitches, whichever comes first, along with one timeout to catch their breath and strategize. The stakes are high, as only the top four home run hitters will advance to the semifinals. In the event of a tie, the longest home run distance will serve as the tiebreaker.
Each player will also have the opportunity to earn additional swings. After the initial timeframe, they'll receive three bonus outs, with the tantalizing prospect of adding a fourth bonus out for launching a 425-foot homer during their bonus time. The semifinal round will then feature head-to-head matchups, whittling the field down to the final two sluggers.
The climax of the evening, the final round, will see the remaining competitors battling it out under a constrained two-minute or 27-pitch limit. The player emerging with the most home runs in this decisive round will claim the coveted title.
Confirmed Participants
The roster for the event is shaping up with some notable names. Gunnar Henderson was the first to confirm his participation, pledging his commitment on June 30. Joining him is Alex Bohm, who announced his inclusion on July 5. One of the most anticipated participants is Pete Alonso, making his fifth appearance in the Home Run Derby. Alonso, who has won the event in 2019 and 2021, and is selected for his fourth career All-Star Game, is undoubtedly one of the favorites.
Teoscar Hernández has also shown interest in participating, adding to the mix of talent and excitement. However, fans will have to do without the presence of some heavy-hitters who have opted out this year.
Notable Absences
Among the absentees is Aaron Judge, a name synonymous with power hitting. Judge, who took home the Derby title in 2017, has decided to sit out this year. Equally, Yordan Alvarez and Juan Soto will not be participating. Soto, who claimed the winner’s trophy in 2022, confirmed his absence with a decisive “No, not this year.”
Another significant absence will be Shohei Ohtani, who initially expressed interest in being part of the contest again. Unfortunately, Ohtani is still recovering from elbow surgery performed in September 2023. Addressing the situation, he stated, "I'm in the middle of my rehab progression, so it's not going to look like I'll be participating." His absence will certainly be felt, as Ohtani's remarkable ability to dazzle both at the mound and the plate has made him a fan favorite.
Anticipation Builds
With the stage set and the anticipation building, the 2024 Home Run Derby promises to be an event filled with spectacular displays of power hitting. Each participant will have the chance to etch their name into the annals of baseball history, while fans can expect a night of awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable swings.
As we edge closer to July 15, the excitement is palpable. Globe Life Field is ready to host a night where home runs will rain down in a spectacular display of skill and strength, showcasing the raw power and talent that makes baseball such an enduring passion for millions around the world.