Excitement Builds for the 2024 MLB Home Run Derby
Major League Baseball’s 2024 Home Run Derby is scheduled for Monday night amidst ongoing All-Star festivities at Globe Life Field, the home of the reigning champion Texas Rangers. Leading the lineup of eight sluggers is Mets’ first baseman Pete Alonso, a two-time Home Run Derby victor in 2019 and 2021. Alonso aims to join Hall of Famer and Mariners icon Ken Griffey Jr. as the only three-time champions in Derby history, participating for the fifth consecutive year.
The Field of Power Hitters
Joining Alonso this year are Adolis García (Rangers), Gunnar Henderson (Orioles), Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals), José Ramírez (Guardians), Marcell Ozuna (Braves), Alec Bohm (Phillies), and Teoscar Hernández (Dodgers).
Here’s how you can catch the action of this year’s Home Run Derby:
Where to Watch 2024 MLB Home Run Derby
Time: 8 p.m. ET | Date: Monday, July 15
Location: Globe Life Field, Arlington, Texas
TV Channel: ESPN | Live Stream: fubo (try for free)
Highlights: CBS Sports HQ
Home Run Derby Format Explained
The Home Run Derby has undergone significant changes in recent years to enhance excitement. This year introduces a revamped format:
First Round
All eight players compete simultaneously in the first round, each getting three minutes or 40 pitches, whichever comes first, plus one timeout. The top four home run hitters advance to the next round. In case of ties, the longest home run distance decides. After the initial round, each player receives three bonus outs to continue hitting, with a chance for a fourth bonus out by hitting a 425-foot homer.
Semifinals
The remaining four players are seeded based on their first-round home run totals, competing in head-to-head matchups (1 vs. 4, 2 vs. 3). They also get three minutes or 40 pitches, plus bonuses.
Finals
The last two contenders face off in a final round with two minutes or 27 pitches, along with bonus opportunities. The player with the most home runs wins.
Previously, players were seeded based on regular-season home run totals and engaged in head-to-head matchups. The new 40-pitch limit aims to speed up the competition and emphasize efficiency.
Home Run Derby Odds
According to Caesars Sportsbook, Pete Alonso leads as the favorite to claim his third Home Run Derby title:
- Pete Alonso: +300
- Gunnar Henderson: +400
- Bobby Witt Jr.: +430
- Marcell Ozuna: +470
- Adolis García: +580
- Teoscar Hernández: +1200
- José Ramírez: +1400
- Alec Bohm: +2500