2015 MLB Home Run Derby Preview

The #HomeRunDerby is back with new format and all this Monday!

The 29th edition of MLB’s beloved Home Run Derby is fueling up to be a very anticipated event. Debuting a new format fitted to help the timing speed up during the derby. Match-ups are decided by seeding, then to be placed into a bracket. 10 outs doesn’t end a round anymore, there’s a time limit. Each contestant gets 5 minutes, per round, to hit as many home runs as they’re able to. Each contestant receives one 45 second time out each round also.

Bonus time will be available depending on the projected distance of home runs. If 2 home runs that are projected to land 420 feet or more, the participant gets an extra minute. Another 30 seconds is available if a home run is further than 475 feet. In case of a tie there is a 90 second swing off. Opinions are surfacing from all over about the derby, but no one knows really what to expect.

Seeding was determined by the amount of home runs a contestant has hit so far during the 2015 season. Albert Pujols was the leader with 26, only one more than Cincinnati Red Todd Frazier. Home Run inexperience is being showcased with six contestants having only double digit career home runs. Including rookie sensations Joc Pederson and Kris Bryant. Prince Fielder is back in search of his 3rd Home Run Derby title, 1st since 2009. Two time, back to back, champion Yoenis Cespedes will not be participating this year.

The field is set, the balls are being prepared and in two short days the fireworks are set to start at Great American Ball Park. The event will be broadcast live from Great American Ball Park Monday, July 13 at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN. It will also be live-streamed on MLB.com, per the league’s official website.