The excitement is already building for the 2024 Home Run Derby, which is set to take place in the heart of Texas, at Globe Life Field, the home of the Texas Rangers, in Arlington. Scheduled for Monday, July 15, at 8 p.m. ET, the event promises a thrilling showdown of power hitters vying for glory under the lights.
The Format
This year’s Derby will feature a unique format where all eight participants will compete head-to-head in the first round. Each slugger will be given three minutes or 40 pitches, whichever comes first, to hit as many home runs as possible. They are allowed one timeout to catch their breath and regroup. The four top home run hitters will advance to the next round.
In case of a tie, the participant with the longest home run will advance. Each player has an opportunity to earn bonus outs after the initial three minutes or 40 pitches. Notably, participants can earn a fourth bonus out if they hit a home run of 425 feet or longer during bonus time.
The semifinal will see the top four hitters face off in head-to-head matchups. To raise the stakes even higher, the final round will have a time limit of two minutes or 27 pitches, crowning the player with the most home runs as the champion.
Confirmed Participants
The field of competitors is already shaping up to be formidable. Gunnar Henderson was the first to confirm his participation on June 30, followed by Alex Bohm, who joined the lineup on July 5. Representing seasoned veterans, Pete Alonso has marked his slot in the competition, making this his fifth appearance in the Derby. Alonso has a storied history with this event, having clinched the title in 2019 and 2021. This year's Derby will also feature Teoscar Hernández, who has expressed strong interest in participating.
Notable Absences
While the lineup is impressive, there are a few notable absences. Aaron Judge, the 2017 Home Run Derby champion, has opted out of this year’s contest. Likewise, Yordan Alvarez and Juan Soto have decided to skip the event. "No, not this year," confirmed Soto, who last won in 2022. Another potential participant, Shohei Ohtani, has ultimately chosen not to participate as he is currently recovering from elbow surgery performed in September 2023. "I'm in the middle of my rehab progression, so it's not going to look like I'll be participating," Ohtani explained.
What to Expect
As always, fans can expect a high-octane display of power hitting, with balls potentially flying out of Globe Life Field. The unique format, compelling stories of seasoned participants like Alonso, and the rising stars like Henderson and Bohm promise an exciting event. Whether it’s the satisfying crack of the bat or the suspenseful countdown, the 2024 Home Run Derby is set to deliver a night of unforgettable moments.
As the date approaches, the anticipation will only grow for both the fans and the players, ensuring that July 15 will be etched in the annals of baseball history. With the brilliant spotlight on Arlington, Texas Rangers' home stadium, this year's Derby will surely be a spectacle that embodies the spirit of America’s pastime.