The 2024 MLB Home Run Derby saw an intense battle between Teoscar Hernandez of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals at Globe Life Field. Hernandez emerged as the champion, hitting 14 home runs in the final round to secure the victory. Witt put up a strong fight, reaching the bonus round with 11 home runs and needing just a few more feet to tie Hernandez. However, his final hit fell just short, hitting the wall instead of clearing it.
At 31 years old, Hernandez became the oldest player to win the Home Run Derby since David Ortiz in 2010. He has been eager to participate in the event for some time and finally achieved his goal with the help of his former Toronto Blue Jays teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The semifinal matchups were also thrilling, with Hernandez edging out Alec Bohm in a swing-off and Witt defeating Jose Ramirez.
Meanwhile, Pete Alonso, the New York Mets slugger aiming for his third Home Run Derby title, was eliminated in the first round under the new format that only allowed the top four hitters to advance. Baltimore Orioles’ Gunnar Henderson hit the lowest number of home runs in the first round, while Marcell Ozuna and Adolis Garcia also failed to move on.
Overall, the 2024 Home Run Derby provided fans with exciting matchups and memorable moments, culminating in Teoscar Hernandez’s well-deserved victory. Stay tuned for more sports coverage and updates on upcoming events.
