While other leagues have struggled to make their All-Star festivities, the MLB does not seem to have that problem. The MLB All-Star game appears to be the best of all the major sports. But what truly separates the MLB All-Star week from the rest is the Home Run Derby. It is just so cool to see some of the best power hitters in baseball try to put as many baseballs into the seats as possible. We still talk about some of the great Derby performances like Josh Hamilton, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Yoenis Céspedes.
However, over the past few years, fans have not loved the rules of the Derby. Back in 2015, the MLB decided to change the format. Instead of players having 10 outs to hit as many home runs as possible, they had only four minutes. This was done to speed up the event and avoid it running all night. This has sparked much debate and left many nostalgic for the past. After years of debate, the MLB has decided to change the rules yet again. But what are these new rules, and why is it the best of both worlds?
This New Home Run Derby Format is the Best of Both Worlds
This new format blends the rules of the old format with the pace of play of the new one. The derby will still be split into three rounds, but each turn at bat will no longer be timed. Instead, the players will have a certain number of swings. In the first round, they will have 20 swings, and on the 20th swing, it’s a swing until you don’t hit one. Ties will be decided by home run distance. The top four move on and will face off in a tournament. In the second and final round, they will have 15 swings, with ties being decided by a swing-off.
The clock was the main reason why so many did not like the new rules. The two main reasons for this were players’ safety and players’ pressing during their turn. With a time limit, guys were not able to catch their breath or be able to reset. This makes the risk of injury so much higher. In fact, Luis Robert Jr hurt his calf during the 2023 derby, mainly due to the fast pace of the event. We have also seen that they are not able to put together great outings because they have to swing at every pitch and cannot wait for their turn.
This new format fixes these two problems. A swing limit allows guys to take a few pitches and catch their breath. They do not have to force swings on every pitch and can take their time. This will help prevent injuries, as these extra breaks will keep muscles from getting so tight. It can also help guys put on better derby performances. Now that hitters can wait for their pitch, they should be able to make better contact. Thus, causing more home runs and more highlight-type performances.
It also keeps the derby from running too long. Sure, we may see a slight increase in the derby’s duration. But it will only increase if guys deliver good performances. So if the derby goes longer, it will be filled with more entertaining moments. It will not be dragged out due to guys getting outs and boring rounds. But the 20 swings prevent a round from lasting for hours. It’s the best of both worlds and should make both old-school and new-school fans happy with the event.
The new Home Run Derby format should make a good event even better. We should be in store for a lot of fun at this year’s event.
