The Home Run Derby, one of baseball’s most beloved traditions, is getting a makeover for 2024. Set to take place on July 15 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, the competition will feature some significant rule changes that promise to shake up the event. Here’s a breakdown of the new format and rules:
New Home Run Derby Format for 2024
First Round Changes: The initial round will now feature all eight participants competing simultaneously, with no predetermined seedings. The top four performers will advance to the semifinals.
Semifinal and Final Rounds: These rounds will adopt a knockout-style format. Seedings for the semifinals will be based solely on first-round performance, with matchups of 1 vs. 4 and 2 vs. 3.
Pitch Limit Introduction: A new pitch limit has been implemented for each round, adding an extra layer of strategy to the competition.
Time Limits: The first two rounds will remain three minutes long, with the final round lasting two minutes.
Tiebreakers: In case of a tie in the semifinals or finals, there will be a 60-second swing-off. If needed, subsequent three-swing “swing-offs” will determine the winner.
These changes aim to create a more dynamic and unpredictable competition, potentially leading to even more memorable performances.
How to Watch the Home Run Derby
Date: July 15, 2024
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: Globe Life Field, Arlington, TX
TV channel:Â ESPN (Watch it live with a free trial to Fubo)
Who is in the Home Run Derby?
- Pete Alonzo
- Gunnar Henderson
- Marcell Ozuna
- Bobby Witt, Jr.
- Adolis Garcia
- Alec Bohm
- Jose Ramirez
- Teoscar Hernandez
Top 10 All-Time Home Run Derby Performances
- Josh Hamilton (2008): Hamilton’s legendary 28-homer first round at the old Yankee Stadium remains unmatched.
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (2019): Guerrero Jr. broke records and engaged in an epic battle with Joc Pederson, showcasing incredible power and endurance.
- Joc Pederson (2019): Pederson’s resilience and impressive showing, particularly in his duel with Guerrero Jr., earned him a spot among the greats.
- Aaron Judge (2017): Judge’s explosive performance solidified his status as a fan favorite and Derby powerhouse.
- Giancarlo Stanton (2016): Stanton’s dominant display at Petco Park set records and thrilled the crowd.
- Bobby Abreu (2005): Abreu’s record-breaking round demonstrated exceptional skill and determination.
- Pete Alonso (2019): Alonso’s victory, marked by dramatic walk-off home runs, showcased his tenacity and skill.
- Todd Frazier (2015): Frazier’s dramatic win in front of his hometown fans highlighted his ability to perform under pressure.
- Bryce Harper (2018): Harper’s captivating comeback victory solidified his reputation as a top Derby competitor.
- Mark McGwire (1999): McGwire’s awe-inspiring display, including a record-setting first round, remains a standout moment in Derby history.
As the Home Run Derby evolves with its new rules, fans can look forward to potentially witnessing performances that may join this illustrious list of all-time greats. The 2024 competition promises to deliver excitement and drama, continuing the tradition of baseball’s premier power-hitting showcase.
