Home Run Derby Slows Down with New Rules and Bonus Time: What You Need to Know

In response to feedback from previous participants, Major League Baseball has announced changes to the 2024 All-Star Home Run Derby. The event will take place on July 15 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The adjustments to the rules aim to slow down the pace of the competition and reduce fatigue and injury risks.

In each of the three timed rounds, players will now face a maximum of 40 pitches. This is a significant change from previous years when batters and pitchers rushed through as many swings as possible, resulting in an average of over 43 swings per round. The new rule allows players more time to rest between rounds and reduces the risk of injury.

The format of the competition has also been modified. While the time limits for each round remain unchanged, batters can earn bonus time by hitting exceptionally long home runs. This bonus time will not be counted against the clock, allowing players to continue hitting until they surpass their opponents. The top four first-round scores will advance to the semifinals, with tiebreakers based on the longest home run hit in the initial round.

The full lineup for the competition has not been revealed yet, but Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson has confirmed his participation. Henderson expressed his excitement about competing in his first Home Run Derby and is tied for second with Aaron Judge in home runs this season. Last year’s champion, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., won’t be defending his title as he opted out of participating this year.

Overall, these changes aim to make the event more enjoyable for participants while reducing fatigue and injury risks for players.