MLB has announced some new rules and changes for the T-Mobile Home Derby in 2024. One of baseball’s exciting traditions is getting a little makeover this summer.
The Home Run Derby is one of the best parts of All-Star week each year. Fans get to watch some of the best baseball players hit monster home runs, which is always fun. Therefore, here is everything you need to know about the format and changes.
Home Run Derby Changes
Standard code Embed from Getty ImagesThough it’s not as drastic of a change as fans saw in 2015, it will be different. The first round this year will have no pre-determined seeds and will have eight players competing against each other. It’s kind of reminiscent of past years. Then, the top four hitters will advance to the semi-finals where it changes format to No.1 vs No.4 and No.2 vs No.3. Therefore, the seedings in this round will be based on first-round performance.
Also, another change is that the first two rounds will be three minutes long, and the final round drops to two minutes. In the first two rounds, it will conclude after three minutes or forty pitches. Whichever comes first. Last year, there were no maximum pitches a hitter could see it was based on the timer. The new rules are interesting and maybe a bit confusing since this should be something fun.
More Home Run Derby Changes
Standard code Embed from Getty ImagesThere will also be changes to bonus pitches in terms of how they are acquired and how long they last. Bonus pitches are no longer on a timer. Each player gets bonus pitches up until they record three outs. If a player hits at least a 425-foot home run, more time is added. The contestants for the derby have yet to be announced, though whoever participates will be put on a show.
The Home Run Derby will look slightly different this year but with the best MLB hitters, it should be entertaining. It will be broadcast on ESPN at 8/7 central on July 15th. Stay tuned for more MLB news and stories.
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Featured Image: Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images
