With just one week remaining until Major League Baseball's highly anticipated Home Run Derby, the excitement among fans is palpable. However, the event faces some notable absences due to injuries, with key players such as Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Royce Lewis, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Mike Trout all sidelined. Despite these setbacks, the Derby promises to be an exhilarating spectacle.
In a historic call in 2019, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was selected for the Derby with a mere eight home runs to his name, setting a precedent that changed the criteria for future participants. Fast forward to this year, only Gunnar Henderson from the Orioles and Alec Bohm from the Phillies have confirmed their spots in the Derby. Baseball aficionados are particularly enthusiastic about Henderson's involvement. "The best player with great power from one of the best teams is an easy choice. Bring it on, Gunnar!" said an enthusiastic insider, capturing the widespread anticipation.
Shohei Ohtani's participation remains a significant question mark, owing to his ongoing elbow rehabilitation. As one fan articulated, "Please. He's the most famous baseball player on the planet and this is an international event." The impact of Ohtani's potential absence on the Derby cannot be overstated, as his involvement would undoubtedly draw global attention.
New Yorkers, on the other hand, have a different scenario to consider. Aaron Judge has made it clear he will participate again only if the event is hosted in New York. This condition has led many to speculate about future Derby locations and the potential for a home advantage bringing Judge back into the fray.
Emerging Stars and Fan Favorites
The Derby will also feature players who are not necessarily the most famous but have demonstrated incredible skill and power this season. Elly De La Cruz of the Cincinnati Reds has captured hearts and imaginations with his flair and significant power. Fans and pundits agree he "deserves it," even if he is not yet a household name.
Oneil Cruz has also become a name to watch, hitting the hardest ball of the season and amassing 13 home runs so far. His powerful performance has been described as "a thing of beauty," setting the stage for what promises to be a noteworthy appearance.
Adolis García, a standout from the 2023 postseason, and Yordan Alvarez, likely to surpass 30 home runs for the fourth consecutive season, are other key players adding depth to this year's Derby. Their presence ensures a robust competition, even without the injured stars.
Veterans and New Faces
Another intriguing storyline is the involvement of Pete Alonso, a two-time Home Run Derby champion. Speculation about his participation has led to mixed reactions, with some suggesting that he's "probably run his course in the event at this point." Nevertheless, resigning Alonso from the realm of Derby champs could be premature, considering his proven track record.
Alongside familiar faces, younger talents are making their mark. Mark Vientos, who participated in the 2022 Futures Game, has notched 11 home runs this season in 156 at-bats. Though still carving his niche in Major League Baseball, his potential inclusion adds a youthful spark to the competition.
The Venue
This year's Home Run Derby will be hosted at the Texas Rangers' venue, a location renowned for its favorable hitting conditions. Fans can look forward to towering home runs and an electrifying atmosphere as the sluggers take the field in Arlington.
As we await the final roster of participants and contend with the uncertainties surrounding players like Ohtani and Judge, one thing is clear: the 2023 Home Run Derby promises to deliver memorable moments and showcase the evolving landscape of power hitters in Major League Baseball.