The anticipation for the 2024 Home Run Derby is building as Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, prepares to host the annual spectacle. Set for Monday, July 15, at 8 p.m. ET, the event promises to bring power and excitement, featuring some of the most prolific home-run hitters in Major League Baseball.
As the home of the Texas Rangers, Globe Life Field will be the battleground for sluggers striving to claim the coveted title. Eight participants will start the competition, each given three minutes or 40 pitches—whichever comes first—to hit as many home runs as possible. They are also allowed one timeout to catch their breath and strategize. The four hitters with the most home runs will advance to the next round, ensuring an adrenaline-packed evening for fans.
Competition Format and Rules
To increase the drama, ties in the first round will be resolved by the longest home run distance—a rule sure to add an extra layer of excitement. Following the initial round, each player is awarded three bonus outs. Additionally, if a player hits a home run measuring at least 425 feet during the bonus time, they will earn a fourth bonus out, further enabling them to showcase their power-hitting prowess.
The semifinal round will feature head-to-head matchups between the top four contenders, and the tension will ramp up as each slugger vies for a spot in the finals. In the ultimate showdown, participants will have a time limit of two minutes or 27 pitches to launch as many home runs as possible. The player with the highest count in this final round will be crowned the winner of the 2024 Home Run Derby.
Confirmed Participants
Gunnar Henderson was the first to announce his participation, making his commitment known on June 30. Alex Bohm followed suit, joining the lineup on July 5. Pete Alonso, a familiar face in the Home Run Derby, is another headliner. Alonso has an impressive track record in the Derby, having claimed the title in 2019 and 2021. His selection for the 2024 All-Star Game marks his fourth career appearance, and this year will be his fifth Derby outing.
Notable Absences
While the list of participants is growing, some notable sluggers have opted out. Aaron Judge, who last participated in 2017 and took home the title, will not be competing this year. Similarly, Yordan Alvarez has decided to skip the Derby, providing a gap that other power hitters will look to fill. Juan Soto, the 2022 Home Run Derby champion, also confirmed his absence, succinctly stating, "No, not this year."
Shohei Ohtani had initially expressed interest in participating again but recently clarified his position. "I'm in the middle of my rehab progression, so it's not going to look like I'll be participating," said Ohtani, who is recovering from elbow surgery performed in September 2023. Teoscar Hernández, however, has shown interest, adding another layer of intrigue to this year's event.
Building Excitement
The enthusiasm surrounding the Home Run Derby continues to grow as more names are confirmed and fans eagerly await the fireworks. Globe Life Field, with its state-of-the-art facilities, is an ideal venue for an event of this magnitude. The Derby not only tests the raw power of the players but also their endurance and tactical acumen, making it a true spectacle of skill and athleticism.
As the countdown to July 15 progresses, the field of participants will likely expand, promising a night of breathtaking home runs and unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a rookie like Gunnar Henderson making his mark or a seasoned pro like Pete Alonso adding another title to his name, the 2024 Home Run Derby is set to be a highlight of the baseball season.