As anticipation builds for the 2024 Home Run Derby, baseball enthusiasts are marking their calendars for what promises to be an electrifying event in Arlington, Texas. Globe Life Field, the impressive home of the Texas Rangers, will serve as the backdrop for this epic display of power hitting on Monday, July 15, at 8 p.m. ET. The competition's setup guarantees a thrilling evening, with all eight participants slugging their way through the initial round under a timed format.
Format and Rules
Each batter will have three minutes or up to 40 pitches, whichever comes first, to launch as many balls out of the park as possible, with one allowed timeout. After the dust settles, the top four home run hitters will progress to the next round, where they will engage in head-to-head battles. Athletes tied in home runs will see their fates decided by the longest distance hit.
Additional incentives are in place to maximize the excitement. Batters will receive three bonus outs following the initial three minutes or 40 pitches. Further intensifying the spectacle, participants can earn a fourth bonus out by hitting a 425-foot homer during this period. The semifinals will employ head-to-head matchups, and the final round will challenge the athletes with a shorter time limit of two minutes or 27 pitches. Ultimately, the player with the highest home run tally in the final showdown will emerge victorious.
Confirmed Participants
Among those gearing up to compete, Gunnar Henderson was the first player to throw his hat into the ring, confirming his participation on June 30. He will be joined by Alex Bohm, who solidified his spot in the lineup on July 5. The multifaceted Pete Alonso is making his fifth appearance in the Derby, adding a layer of intrigue given his previous wins in 2019 and 2021. The New York Mets' standout will also be celebrating his fourth career All-Star Game appearance.
Notable Absences
While the confirmed participants promise a thrilling competition, some notable players will be sitting this one out. Aaron Judge, who last electrified fans in the Derby with a victory in 2017, has opted not to participate this year. Yordan Alvarez and Juan Soto, the latter being the 2022 Home Run Derby champion, will also be absent. Soto succinctly summed up his decision, stating, "No, not this year." Their absence opens the door for other sluggers to make a name for themselves in this year's event.
Shohei Ohtani's Status
Shohei Ohtani, the two-way sensation who initially expressed interest in rejoining the Derby, has to prioritize his health. Ohtani is in the midst of recovering from elbow surgery performed in September 2023. Reflecting on his current condition, he remarked, "I'm in the middle of my rehab progression, so it's not going to look like I'll be participating." As a result, fans will miss out on seeing one of baseball's most dynamic stars in action during the Derby.
Final Thoughts
Despite the absence of some marquee names, the 2024 Home Run Derby is shaping up to offer plenty of fireworks. With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents ready to take the field, Globe Life Field will undoubtedly be the epicenter of baseball excitement on the evening of July 15. As the participants gear up for the challenge, fans can look forward to an event filled with jaw-dropping moments and celebrated power displays, ensuring an unforgettable night for everyone watching.