Major League Baseball has announced changes to the 2024 All-Star Home Run Derby, which will take place on July 15 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The adjustments to the rules were made in response to feedback from previous participants who felt the event was moving too quickly.
In each of the three timed rounds of the competition, players will now face a maximum of 40 pitches. In previous years, the Derby had adopted a fast-paced format where batters and pitchers rushed through as many swings as possible. The average number of swings per round exceeded 43 during last year’s event, prompting concerns about fatigue and potential injury risks.
To address these concerns, Major League Baseball has introduced several changes to the format of the competition. While the time limits for each round remain unchanged, batters can earn bonus time by hitting exceptionally long home runs. This bonus time will not be counted against the clock, allowing players to continue hitting until they surpass their opponents. The top four first-round scores will advance to the semifinals and tiebreakers based on the longest home run hit in the initial round.
The full lineup of participants has not been revealed yet, but Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson has been confirmed as one of the contenders. Henderson expressed his excitement for his first competitive Home Run Derby and is tied for second most home runs in MLB behind Aaron Judge last year’s champion Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who will not be defending his title in this event.
These changes are expected to make the competition more exciting and enjoyable for both players and fans alike while also addressing safety concerns related to fatigue and injury risk.
Overall, Major League Baseball’s decision to change up its All-Star Home Run Derby format is a welcome adjustment that should make for a more thrilling experience all around.
