With just one week to go until Major League Baseball’s highly anticipated Home Run Derby, anticipation is building among fans and players alike. The annual event, known for its electrifying display of power hitting, is set to showcase some of the sport’s most impressive talents. However, this year’s Derby will be marked by the absence of several key figures due to injuries.
Among the notable sidelined players are Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Royce Lewis, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Mike Trout. These absences will undoubtedly be felt, but the event promises an exciting spectacle nonetheless. The Home Run Derby, hosted at the Texas Rangers' venue, has always been an eagerly awaited fixture on the baseball calendar.
Confirmed Participants
As of now, only Gunnar Henderson of the Orioles and Alec Bohm of the Phillies have confirmed their participation in the Derby. Henderson, who has racked up 27 home runs this season, has quickly become a favorite among fans. An enthusiastic insider commented, “The best player with great power from one of the best teams is an easy choice. Bring it on, Gunnar!” This sentiment is echoed by many who have followed his ascent this season.
Possible and Uncertain Entrants
Shohei Ohtani, arguably the most famous baseball player on the planet, has yet to confirm his participation due to ongoing elbow rehabilitation. The anticipation surrounding Ohtani remains high, as one commentator noted, “Please. He's the most famous baseball player on the planet and this is an international event.” His decision is awaited with bated breath by fans worldwide.
In contrast, Aaron Judge has made his stance clear—he will only participate if the Derby is hosted in New York. This revelation adds an intriguing element to future considerations of the event’s location.
Elly De La Cruz, known for his entertaining style and significant power, is another player whose inclusion in the Derby would be eagerly welcomed by fans and pundits alike. Many believe that he "deserves it" given his prowess at the plate. Oneil Cruz, who has hit the hardest ball this season and accumulated 13 home runs, is another standout player. An observer's remark, “A thing of beauty,” aptly captured the magic of Cruz hitting a pitch.
Past and Present Stars
Reflecting on past performances, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was a standout pick for the 2019 Derby despite having only eight home runs at the time. His participation turned out to be a memorable spectacle for fans. In the current season, eyes are on Yordan Alvarez, who is likely to surpass 30 home runs for the fourth consecutive year, further cementing his status as a leading power hitter.
In the mix of potential candidates, Mark Vientos, who participated in the 2022 Futures Game, has made an impression this season with 11 home runs in 156 at-bats. Meanwhile, fans still recall Adolis García’s heroics from the 2023 postseason, further solidifying the interest in his potential involvement.
And then there’s Pete Alonso, the two-time Home Run Derby champion. While some think he might have “run his course in the event at this point,” his past victories ensure that his name remains synonymous with the Derby.
The Venue and Its Significance
Hosting the Derby at the Texas Rangers’ venue adds another layer of excitement. It is an ideal setting, offering a perfect backdrop for the power hitters to showcase their talents.
As the countdown continues, the final roster of participants will undoubtedly shape the event. Yet, regardless of the final lineup, the Home Run Derby promises to be, as always, a captivating exhibition of baseball’s greatest power hitters.