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2024 MLB Home Run Derby Primer

Trey Daubert / MLB / July 15, 2024

2024 MLB Home Run Derby Primer

The Home Run Derby is so back and it’s by far the best part of baseball’s All-Star weekend. When it comes to the 2024 Home Run Derby, we have new rules this year (thank god). I won’t take up too much of your time. I just wanted to give a quick primer on the event today so you know what’s up.

How To Watch?

The event will be held on July 15th, 2024 at 8 pm EST on ESPN.

Who are the Participants?

Here you go. This is ESPN’s write-up on all the players in the field. I’ll use their link since they’re the ones with the TV rights. If you don’t care about that sort of thing, they’re listed below with the number of homers they have hit up until this point. Remember… the bracket is formed after the first round.

Gunnar Henderson, Orioles (28)

Marcell Ozuna, Braves (26)
Jose Ramirez, Guardians (23)
Teoscar Hernandez, Dodgers (19)

Pete Alonso, Mets (19)
Adolis Garcia, Rangers (17)
Bobby Witt Jr., Royals (16)

Alec Bohm, Phillies (11)

2023 MLB Home Run Derby Simulation Results

Who to Bet on?

I’ll give you a few options. It really does feel wide open this year compared to last year (where I correctly predicted the winner).

Alonso is always a safe bet. He’s won this event multiple times. The Mets’ slugger is the favorite for a reason. I don’t mind going that route if that’s the way you way to play it.

Bobby Witt Jr is also intriguing here although I’m surprised he’s the 3rd highest odds at around +430 at time of publication. He’s just a great athlete and is from the area so may have an extra pep in his step. Henderson could be worth the shot too but at +380, it’s not enticing enough for me to bite.

Garcia is at home and has the biceps to do it. I also wouldn’t count him out.

If you’re looking for a long shot, Hernandez is the play. +1200 odds are super intriguing. He’s got the body and swing to win this event. He’s a swing-and-miss guy in real baseball but that shouldn’t be an issue when the ball is on a t. I love throwing some pizza money on that play.

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