As advanced analytics, technology and stronger athletes have turned modern Major League Baseball (MLB) into a “power” game, the Midsummer Classic isn’t just about the MLB All-Star Game anymore. It’s about MLB All-Star Weekend, and the Home Run Derby has become the prized event. When talks of the Midsummer Classic arise, “All Rise” may be the phrase fans gravitate to, hoping to see the league’s best power hitter, Aaron Judge, participate in the Home Run Derby. 

The Home Run Derby is an annual event that pits MLB’s most athletic and most powerful players against one another to see who can put the most balls in the seats. It is an electrifying spectacle, captivating fans with towering blasts that scrape the sky. Here, we explore the origins and history of the MLB Home Run Derby, tracing its evolution from a modest beginning to the grand showcase of slugging it is today.

Origins of the Home Run Derby

The Home Run Derby was first executed as a TV special in the 1960s, featuring a nine-inning contest between the likes of Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and Mickey Mantle. Tragic circumstances upended the event, however, and the derby did not make its way back to baseball until MLB PR Director Robert S. Fishel brought the idea to life at the Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as part of the 1985 All-Star Game festivities.

The early years of the Home Run Derby elicited little fanfare. The contests were held in the afternoon, were not televised live, had limited media coverage and the format consisted of players having a set number of “outs” (swings that did not result in a home run) to hit as many long balls as possible.

Growth and Popularity

Like any new event, especially during the 1980s, it takes time to gain traction and earn popularity. By the 1990s, executives made the move to turn the Home Run Derby into a primetime national TV event. The move paid off, driving significant media engagement and ratings. 

A signature moment for the contest came in 1993, when Juan Gonzalez of the Texas Rangers smacked a then record-tying 12 dingers in the final round to defeat eventual 3x Home Run Derby champion Ken Griffey Jr. One of Gonzalez’ blasts was estimated at 473 feet. 

The 1990s and early 2000s saw several format changes to keep the event fresh and engaging. The introduction of rounds and brackets added a layer of competition, while the inclusion of more participants increased the excitement. Griffey Jr.’s three Derby victories in 1994, 1998 and 1999 remain a record. Sammy Sosa’s power display in 2000 and Josh Hamilton’s 28-homer first round in 2008 further elevated the event’s status. 

Modern Era Format

In 2015, MLB introduced a timed format, replacing the traditional “outs” system. This change added urgency and excitement, as players now have a set amount of time to hit as many home runs as possible. The bracket-style competition, with head-to-head matchups, has also added drama and tension. 

In 2021, the time limit was reduced from five minutes to three minutes in regulation and two minutes in the finals. Contestants also receive a 30-second bonus at the end of each regulation period, and can earn an additional 30 seconds if they hit a home run that’s at least 440 feet. 

The 2024 Home Run Derby will also feature some rule changes, including a 3-on-3 co-ed competition and bonus points for hitting home runs through the center-field target. 

Impact on Baseball Culture

To this point, there have been 37 Home Run Derbys, featuring 34 different winners. Aside From Griffey Jr., Prince Fielder (2009, 2012), Yoenis Cespedes (2013, 2014) and Pete Alonso (2019, 2021) are the only players to win the event multiple times. In 2018, the MLB introduced the slogan, “Let the Kids Play,” signaling an effort to appeal to younger audiences and embrace the excitement of the league’s fiery talent. The Home Run Derby has helped facilitate this progress.

Fans want to see home runs, and they want to see the biggest and best power hitters competing against each other to be crowned a champion. The Home Run Derby celebrates baseball’s most thrilling outcome through competition, bringing people together and showcasing the personalities of its brightest stars.