The anticipation for the 2024 Home Run Derby is reaching fever pitch as Arlington, Texas, gears up to host one of baseball's most electrifying events. Globe Life Field, home to the Texas Rangers, will be the stage for this power-packed showdown on Monday, July 15, at 8 p.m. ET.
The Format and Rules
The format promises thrill and competitiveness, starting with all eight participants competing in the first round. Each slugger will have three minutes or 40 pitches—whichever comes first—to hit as many home runs as possible, with one timeout at their disposal. The top four hitters from this round will advance to the semifinals.
Ties in the initial rounds will be decided based on the longest home run distance—a rule that guarantees further excitement. Additionally, players will get three bonus outs after the first three minutes or 40 pitches, and they can earn a fourth bonus out if they blast a home run of 425 feet or more during their bonus time.
The semifinal round will see head-to-head matchups between the top four contenders. The final round, aimed to enhance the spectacle, reduces the time to two minutes or 27 pitches. The player who hits the most home runs in the final will be crowned the winner.
Confirmed Participants and Absentees
The participant lineup is shaping up to be a fascinating mix of seasoned Derby stars and fresh faces. Gunnar Henderson was the first to commit, announcing his participation on June 30. Alex Bohm joined the ranks on July 5, adding more depth to the competition. Pete Alonso, a familiar and formidable presence in the Derby, is set for his fifth appearance. Alonso, a two-time winner (2019 and 2021) and a four-time All-Star, remains one of the biggest attractions.
Notably, Teoscar Hernández has shown interest in participating, adding to the anticipation. However, several big names have decided to skip the 2024 event. Aaron Judge, who last participated and won the Derby in 2017, will not be competing this year. Yordan Alvarez and Juan Soto, the 2022 champion, have also opted out. Shohei Ohtani, one of the most exciting players in the league, initially expressed interest but had to back out because of his recovery from elbow surgery performed in September 2023.
Ohtani stated, "I'm in the middle of my rehab progression, so it's not going to look like I'll be participating." Similarly, Soto made his intentions clear with a brief but conclusive, "No, not this year."
An Event Filled with Potential
The blend of established stars and emerging talent sets the stage for an electrifying competition. Alonso’s experience and past victories position him as a favorite, but the challenge from hungry newcomers like Henderson and Bohm ensures that the competition will be intense from the very first pitch.
Globally, fans are eager to see who will step up in the absence of notable absentees like Judge and Soto. Every swing will be critical, and each home run blasted over the Globe Life Field fences will bring the crowd to their feet, making the Home Run Derby one of the most entertaining spectacles of the All-Star week.
As players gear up for this test of power, the camaraderie and competitive spirit among the participants will bring an extra edge to the event. The Home Run Derby stands as more than just a contest of scoring runs; it’s a celebration of baseball’s charismatic performers grabbing their moment under the spotlight.
With all preparations in place, Arlington is set to witness a night of sheer power and dazzling displays of baseball prowess. Fans and participants alike will create memories that will be talked about for seasons to come, as the 2024 Home Run Derby promises to be an event that epitomizes the excitement and joy of the sport.