First Participant Gunnar Henderson Brings New Format to Home Run Derby

Gunnar Henderson has officially confirmed his place in the Home Run Derby, making him the first player to join the competition. Major League Baseball made the announcement on social media Sunday night, revealing an updated format for this year’s event. In the new format, the field of eight competitors will compete in the first round, with the top four advancing to a bracketed semifinal. The winners of the semifinal bracket will then face off in the final round to determine this year’s Home Run Derby champion.

After winning the AL Rookie of the Year award last season, Henderson is now a contender for the AL East-leading Orioles. With 26 home runs, he is currently tied for second in the major leagues, only behind Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees. Henderson also leads the majors with eight leadoff homers, putting him just five behind Alfonso Soriano’s big league record. The reigning Home Run Derby champion is Vladimir Guerrero Jr. from the Toronto Blue Jays, who hit 25 home runs in the 2023 finals.

The Home Run Derby is scheduled to take place on July 15 as part of the All-Star festivities at Globe Life Field in Texas. The Associated Press contributed to this report. If you want to receive personalized newsletters with great stories delivered right to your inbox, create or log in to your FOX Sports account and follow your favorite leagues, teams, and players for more information on games, news, and more from Major League Baseball.