The 2024 Home Run Derby is set to bring a thrilling showcase of power and skill to Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, on July 15. As baseball enthusiasts gear up for one of the most anticipated events in the sport, the competition promises an unforgettable evening. The event will commence at 8 p.m. ET, attracting fans from far and wide.
Returning to defend his title is the electrifying Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who claimed the recent crown. With a new format in place, the 2024 Derby ensures a fresh wave of excitement that could potentially see records shattered and new legends born.
Derby Format and Rules
This year’s format has been updated to intensify the competition. All eight participants will face off in the first round, which will feature a three-minute or 40-pitch limit per player, along with one timeout. This setup guarantees an action-packed start, where every swing could be a game-changer.
The top four home run hitters from this round will advance to the semifinals. In case of a tie, the longest home run will serve as the tiebreaker—a rule that adds another layer of intrigue and strategy to the event. Players are also allowed three bonus outs after their time or pitches are exhausted, with an additional bonus out available for hitting a 425-foot home run during bonus time.
In the semifinal round, players will be seeded 1-4 based on their first-round performance. The top seed will compete against the fourth seed, while the second and third seeds face off. The same time and pitch restrictions apply in this round, maintaining the fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
The final showdown will see the two remaining sluggers compete with reduced limits—two minutes or 27 pitches, and a single timeout. The player smashing the most home runs in this climactic round will be crowned the Home Run Derby champion.
Participant Updates
Interest in this year’s Derby has been high, yet not all the great power hitters will be stepping up to the plate. Aaron Judge, a perennial crowd favorite, has opted out of participating unless the All-Star Game moves to New York, stating his position clearly ahead of the event.
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels, known for his dual-threat as a pitcher and hitter, has expressed keen interest in joining the lineup. "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 revealed. His potential participation is pending final approvals, adding a layer of anticipation around his decision.
From the Baltimore Orioles, Gunnar Henderson will be making his debut in the Derby. His inclusion adds a fresh face and an unexpected element to the competition, as fans eagerly wait to see how the newcomer fares against seasoned hitters.
Notable Absences
Yordan Alvarez from the Houston Astros has decided against participating in this year’s Derby, candidly stating, "Something I'm not super motivated to do at this moment." His decision marks the absence of another high-profile power hitter from the event.
Anticipation Builds
As the Home Run Derby draws nearer, discussions and predictions are swirling throughout the baseball community. Globe Life Field is set to witness a dramatic evening filled with towering home runs and memorable moments. Fans can expect a blend of veteran experience and fresh enthusiasm as baseball's biggest hitters step into the spotlight.
With its updated format and competitive field, the 2024 Home Run Derby promises not just a contest of strength, but a strategic, high-stakes spectacle. As the gates open and the lights shine down on Arlington, the stage is set for what could be an all-time classic event in baseball history.