A few of the key rules and format for the Home Run Derby have been changed ahead of this year's event.

 

Hitters will now see a maximum of 40 pitches within their timed round, in order to emphasize efficiency between the contestants and their pitchers.

 

In recent years, participants in the Derby have been vocal about the event being too frantic and accelerated, therefore creating a heightened risk of injury.

 

Hitters will have a three minute time limit in the first two rounds, with a two minute timer in the championship round. Bonus time will also no longer be timed, and instead continue until the hitter has three "outs", which is any swing that isn't a home run.

 

There will also no longer be a head-to-head style bracket, instead reverting back to the old style with the top four scores from the first round advancing to the semifinals, and the top two semifinal scores advancing to the finals.

 

Toronto's Vladimir Guerrero Jr won the 2023 Home Run Derby in Seattle. Baltimore Orioles star shortstop Gunnar Henderson was the first contestant to be confirmed for the 2024 Derby, which takes place in Arlington, Texas on July 15th.