What’s the Home Run Derby 2024 All About?
The Home Run Derby 2024 is set for July 15 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. It’s part of MLB All-Star Week and features eight top hitters swinging for the fences in a timed bracket format. It’s fast-paced, dramatic, and one of the most watched nights in baseball.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- What the Home Run Derby is
- When and where it’s happening
- How it fits into the bigger All-Star Week lineup
The Derby isn’t just a show — it’s a real test of strength, timing, and endurance. The players get a set amount of time to hit as many home runs as they can. No pitch count. Just a clock and raw power.
Date: Monday, July 15, 2024
Location: Globe Life Field, Arlington, Texas
Start Time: Around 8:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PT)
Broadcast: ESPN and MLB.tv
It happens the night before the MLB All-Star Game, which wraps up the four-day All-Star celebration. The weekend also includes the Futures Game, Celebrity Softball Game, and more.
What’s the Home Run Derby 2024 All About?
The Home Run Derby 2024 takes place on July 15 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. It’s a power-hitting contest featuring eight of MLB’s top sluggers, held the night before the All-Star Game. The event follows a timed bracket format and is broadcast live on ESPN and MLB.tv.
In this section, you’ll find out:
- What the Home Run Derby actually is
- When and where it’s happening
- How it fits into the full All-Star Week schedule
The Home Run Derby isn’t just entertainment — it’s a staple of baseball’s midsummer calendar. Each hitter gets timed rounds to launch as many home runs as possible. It’s loud, fast, and packed with crowd energy.
Date: Monday, July 15, 2024
Location: Globe Life Field – Arlington, TX
Start Time: 8:00 PM ET
Watch on: ESPN, MLB.tv
The Derby sits right in the heart of MLB All-Star Week, which runs from July 13–16. The full schedule includes the Futures Game, Celebrity Softball Game, the Home Run Derby, and the All-Star Game itself.
Who Are the Home Run Derby 2024 Participants?
Eight sluggers will battle in this year’s Home Run Derby: Teoscar Hernández, Bobby Witt Jr., Alec Bohm, José Ramírez, Adolis García, Marcell Ozuna, Pete Alonso, and Gunnar Henderson. All bring big-league power. Hernández won in 2024, and Alonso, Ozuna, and others return. First-timers? None—everyone has Derby experience except Henderson.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- Which players are in the field
- Who’s returned from past Derbies
- Which faces are new up (or nearly)
- Their season-long home run stats
Confirmed Players
- Teoscar Hernández (Dodgers) – defending champ with 33 regular-season homers.
- Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals) – 20 HRs in first round, 17 in semis, 13 in finals.
- Alec Bohm (Phillies) – hit 21 HRs opening, tied in semis.
- José Ramírez (Guardians) – matched Bohm with 21 in round one.
- Adolis García (Rangers) – 18 HRs early round.
- Marcell Ozuna (Braves) – put up 16 in opening round.
- Pete Alonso (Mets) – returning sluggers with 12 first-round blasts.
- Gunnar Henderson (Orioles) – rookie-level power with 11 HRs before elimination.
Past Winners
- Teoscar Hernández took the crown in 2024.
- Pete Alonso, two-time champ, is back to chase a third.
First-Timers (or Near First-Timers)
- Gunnar Henderson is making his Derby debut.
- Marcell Ozuna and Adolis García, though All-Star rookies, are new to this stage.
How Does the Format Work This Year?
The 2024 Home Run Derby uses a single-elimination bracket with three rounds. Each hitter gets three minutes to mash as many homers as possible. Top seeds face low seeds in the first round, and tie-breakers involve extra swings or timed rounds. Bonus time is awarded for hitting 440+ ft home runs.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- How many total rounds there are
- How matchups are created
- Time limits, bonus time, and what happens in a tie
Format Overview (2024)
There are three rounds:
- Quarterfinals – 8 players
- Semifinals – 4 players
- Finals – 2 players
Each round is timed:
- 3 minutes per hitter in Round 1 and Semis
- 2 minutes in the Final
- One 30-second bonus is automatic
- Extra 30 seconds if a player hits 2 homers over 440 feet
Matchups
Players are seeded 1 through 8 based on regular season home run totals.
- 1 faces 8
- 2 faces 7
Winner of each matchup advances to the next round.
Tie-breakers
- First: 60-second tiebreaker (no bonus)
- Still tied? Three-swing swing-off
- Still tied? Another swing-off until there’s a winner
Where’s the Derby Being Held and Why Does It Matter?
The 2024 Home Run Derby is being held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. It’s a retractable-roof stadium known for its power-friendly design. Controlled climate, short fences, and thin summer air could mean more home runs — especially with top sluggers on the stage.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- Where the Derby is being held
- What makes this stadium different
- Why park factors might affect results
Stadium Overview
- Name: Globe Life Field
- Location: Arlington, Texas
- Opened: 2020
- Capacity: 40,300
- Roof: Retractable
- Home Team: Texas Rangers
This ballpark was designed to favor hitters, especially pull hitters. While not the most extreme HR park in the league, it’s become known for quick exits off the bat — especially in warm, enclosed conditions.
Why It Matters
The roof and climate control play a big role.
With the roof likely closed in July’s Texas heat, air resistance is lower. That allows balls to travel farther with less drag.
Also, the short porches in left and right field make it easier for hitters to drop bombs, especially right-handed power hitters.
Expect fewer foul pops, more center-cut bombs, and faster launches off the bat. Timing will be everything.
What Makes This Derby Different from Last Year?
The 2024 Home Run Derby stands out with a fresh champion, louder marketing, and a deeper pool of power hitters. Teoscar Hernández took the crown, ending Pete Alonso’s dominance. While the format stayed the same, MLB ramped up fan engagement, digital coverage, and ticket demand—making this year feel bigger and more connected.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- What’s changed from 2023
- Which new players stepped into the spotlight
- How MLB turned up the volume for fans watching live and online
What’s Different in 2024?
New Faces, New Final
Last year’s champ Vladimir Guerrero Jr. didn’t return. In his place, Teoscar Hernández emerged as the headline slugger, taking the title. Bobby Witt Jr. also made his Derby debut, bringing youth and speed into the mix.
The 2024 final between Hernández and Witt felt faster, more competitive, and less predictable.
Format Consistency, Bigger Stage
The format remained unchanged (timed rounds, bracket style), but everything else around it felt upgraded:
- More player access before and during the Derby
- Real-time social media clips during rounds
- Behind-the-scenes content released faster
Marketing & Fan Push
MLB leaned heavily into short-form content, influencer coverage, and mobile engagement. Fans could vote on the walk-up music, rate swings in real-time, and interact with live polls during the ESPN broadcast. There was also a boost in team-based content, as cities promoted their stars leading up to the Derby.
How Are Players Preparing Behind the Scenes?
Home Run Derby hitters train differently from regular games. They focus on short bursts of power, hand speed, and rhythm under pressure. Behind the scenes, they work with private coaches, test custom bats, and prep mentally to stay locked in for rapid-fire swings with little rest. Every second matters—and they train like it.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- What hitters do to prep for the Derby
- How their training shifts from everyday MLB routines
- What kind of gear and support they bring into the cage
Training Routines Built for Power
This isn’t about hitting for contact—it’s about repeatable, explosive power.
Most players lean into bat speed drills, core strength training, and timed BP sessions. They practice swinging with intent for 2–3 minutes straight—just like the real format.
Some players use VR headsets to simulate pitch tracking and timing, while others work on mental reset drills to recover between rounds.
Custom Gear and Comfort
Players don’t use their in-game bats for Derby night. Instead, they choose lighter, end-loaded bats designed for quick whip and distance.
They also pick cleats they can grip the dirt with but feel light in. Some use different batting gloves, even go without them to feel the handle better.
Behind Every Swing Is a Coach
Many hitters bring a personal BP pitcher or a hitting coach they trust—sometimes even a family member. Consistency from the mound is as critical as power from the plate.
These pitchers are trained to groove the same pitch every time, inside a perfect hitting zone.
Can the Underdogs Steal the Spotlight?
Yes—underdogs can and often do shake up the Home Run Derby. Low-seeded hitters like Alec Bohm and Bobby Witt Jr. made deep runs in 2024. Power isn’t always enough—timing, stamina, and rhythm win rounds. All it takes is one hot swing streak to knock out a favorite and change everything.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- Which low-seeded or less-hyped players stood out
- The matchups that had upset potential
- Examples of surprise wins from this year and past events
Lesser-Known Names, Big Swings
Some players entered the Derby with less buzz but showed serious firepower.
Alec Bohm, a 7 seed, knocked out higher-seeded opponents and nearly made the final.
Bobby Witt Jr., though a rising star, wasn’t favored to beat sluggers like Pete Alonso—but he did.
They showed that seeding means little if a hitter catches rhythm early.
Matchups That Flipped Expectations
In the first round, Bohm vs. Ramírez was tight. Both hit 21 HRs, forcing a swing-off. Bohm advanced. Witt vs Alonso was another shocker. Witt dropped 20 HRs in the first round and followed with 17 in the semis, ending Alonso’s shot at another title.
History Repeats
The Derby has a track record of surprises.
In 2019, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a rookie at the time, broke records but lost in the final.
In 2021, Trey Mancini, a cancer survivor and underdog, made the final round.
Upsets aren’t rare—they’re expected.
What’s at Stake Beyond the Trophy?
The 2024 Home Run Derby winner took home $1 million—but that’s just the start. Players also gain endorsement deals, more national spotlight, and a major boost to their personal brand. A strong Derby showing can reshape a player’s career, build fan loyalty, and lock them into future All-Star or marketing opportunities.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- What players actually win in dollars and exposure
- How it impacts their long-term career and image
- Why the Derby isn’t just about who hits the most
Cash Prize, Bragging Rights, and Beyond
- Winner’s prize: $1 million
- Runner-up prize: $500,000
- Participant appearance bonus: $150,000+ each
That’s a massive payday for many players—especially those still on rookie or team-friendly contracts.
Sponsorship and Endorsements
A Derby standout usually gets more than a trophy.
Big swings on national TV = new endorsement deals, cleat and bat sponsors, and media invites. Teoscar Hernández’s win put him in conversations with national advertisers.
Brands like T-Mobile, Gatorade, and Wilson activate sponsor campaigns during the Derby and often partner with top hitters afterward.
Fan Growth and Legacy
The Derby can skyrocket a player’s popularity—especially among casual fans.
Social media mentions surge, jersey sales spike, and All-Star votes climb.
It also builds a narrative: guys like Pete Alonso and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are now tied to Derby greatness, even beyond regular-season stats.
What Fans Should Expect on Derby Night
Fans can watch the 2024 Home Run Derby live on ESPN or stream it via MLB.tv. For those at Globe Life Field, expect loud music, player intros, fireworks, and celebrity appearances. Between rounds, the stadium comes alive with contests, giveaways, and fan cams—making it more than just a home run show.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- How to watch the Derby from home or stream
- What the in-person experience includes
- What extras fans can expect at the ballpark
How to Watch
- TV Broadcast: ESPN (starts 8:00 PM ET)
- Streaming: MLB.tv, ESPN app, or via cable logins
- Radio Coverage: Available on ESPN Radio and SiriusXM
Broadcasters typically feature player interviews mid-round and real-time HR tracking.
In-Stadium Experience
If you’re attending at Globe Life Field, be ready for a show:
- Gates open: 5:00 PM local time
- Live music/DJ sets before first pitch
- On-field player warmups fans can watch up close
- Free giveaways (mini bats, posters, etc.)
- Fan cams, kiss cams, and home run trackers shown on big screens
- Plenty of food vendors, local BBQ, and themed drinks inside
Side Events and Surprises
Between rounds or before the event:
- Appearances by former MLB legends
- Celebrity guests shown in the crowd
- Fans may get selected for mid-inning contests (e.g., fastest swing challenge)
- Possible fireworks or light show during intros or after the final round
Who’s Predicted to Win and Why?
Pete Alonso holds early betting favor with +310 odds, but Gunnar Henderson and Marcell Ozuna are gaining ground. Experts highlight power metrics like exit velocity, while social media polls show unexpected support for Henderson and Witt. The race is tight—look for real-time stats and fan sentiment to shift expectations.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- Who sportsbooks are backing
- What analysts and fans are saying
- What power metrics analysts focus on
Odds from Sportsbooks
- Pete Alonso: +310—early favorite based on experience and stamina
- Gunnar Henderson: +575—bettors show strong support, with about 25.5% of bets
- Marcell Ozuna: +475—considered a sleeper with reliable power
What Analysts Are Saying
FOX Sports praises Alonso’s stamina and past success.
ESPN calls Henderson a top sleeper pick based on raw swing
Power metrics (e.g. exit velocity, barrel rate) play heavily into predictions.
Fan Favorites & Social Media Buzz
Reddit discussions poll listeners often pick Henderson or Ozuna as surprise winners.
Fan sentiment seems split three-ways, making the Derby feel open and unpredictable.
Final Thoughts on the 2024 Showdown
The 2024 Home Run Derby brought power, surprises, and a new champ in Teoscar Hernández. Bobby Witt Jr. turned heads, and Pete Alonso showed why he’s still a threat. This wasn’t just batting practice—it was a spotlight for rising stars, underdogs, and fan energy that’ll roll into Tuesday’s All-Star Game.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this section:
- The biggest player moments from the night
- Why this Derby stood out
- What’s next on the All-Star Week schedule
FAQs
Who won the last Home Run Derby?
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. won the 2023 Home Run Derby, defeating Randy Arozarena in the final round. He became the first son of a former Derby champion—Vlad Sr.—to win the event, creating a father-son legacy moment. Guerrero Jr. crushed 25 home runs in the final round at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park. You’ll learn who made history last year and how 2024 stacked up in comparison.
How are players chosen for the derby?
Players are selected by MLB based on season home run totals, fan interest, and availability. Some receive direct invites; others are recommended by team managers or players. Not all top sluggers agree to join—fatigue, risk of injury, or timing near the All-Star break may influence decisions. This section explains how the field is built and why you might not see every league leader on the list.
Is there a prize for longest homer?
No official prize is given just for the longest home run, but fans and media track it closely. Hitting a 440+ ft homer unlocks bonus time, which can decide a round. In 2024, Pete Alonso hit one of the farthest—over 470 ft—but didn’t win the overall event. You’ll learn how long bombs affect scoring even if they don’t bring extra cash.
Can pitchers enter the derby?
No—only position players, typically sluggers, are allowed to compete in the Home Run Derby. Pitchers haven’t participated in the modern format. The event is built around offensive stats and swing performance, so even two-way stars like Shohei Ohtani join as hitters only. This clears up one of the most common myths among new fans.
Where can I watch it live?
The 2024 Home Run Derby aired live on ESPN and streamed on MLB.tv and the ESPN app. Fans could also tune in via ESPN Radio or follow real-time coverage through MLB’s social channels. Broadcast started at 8:00 PM ET with player intros and bracket reveals. You’ll know exactly where and how to catch the action each year, even if you don’t have cable.
