My dream 2023 Home Run Derby lineup
The defending champ, star power, and the future of the sport.
The 2023 Home Run Derby will take place on July 10, so we should be getting word on the participants in this year’s competition relatively soon. Before then, I wanted to share my ideal lineup for the tournament, which in my opinion has been extremely entertaining in recent years.
Juan Soto, in one of his final memorable moments as a Washington National, defeated eventual AL Rookie of the Year Julio Rodriguez 19-18 in the final round of last year’s derby. It was a blast. If we get another strong lineup this time around, we should be in for another fun event.
Here’s my dream lineup for the 2023 Home Run Derby. Note: I’d include Yordan Alvarez and Aaron Judge, but both could be out through the All-Star break due to injuries.
Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels
Ohtani participated in the 2021 Home Run Derby but was eliminated by Soto in the first round. Still, his six 500-foot home runs marked the most in a single Home Run Derby since Statcast began tracking in 2016.
As unquestionably the biggest superstar in the sport, Ohtani returning to the derby for a shot at redemption is a no-brainer. He declined last year’s invitation, however, so this is all just wishful thinking.
Julio Rodriguez, Seattle Mariners
Gotta give J-Rod another chance. Rodriguez came oh so close to winning the 2022 Home Run Derby in his debut MLB season. He took down two-time champion Pete Alonso with a monster round and became the first player ever to hit multiple 30-HR rounds in a single derby.
Plus, this year’s All-Star festivities will take place in Seattle. These events always need a player from the hometown team in the mix, so I’d be shocked if Rodriguez isn’t included.
Randy Arozarena, Tampa Bay Rays
Here’s a pick that’s somewhat out of left field (no pun intended). Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena isn’t the first guy that comes to mind when you ponder fits for the Home Run Derby, but there’s no doubt he’d bring the entertainment. He was electrifying throughout the World Baseball Classic and is in the midst of a stellar season with the best team in baseball.
Who knows? As clutch as Arozarena is, he could win the damn thing. I would not be surprised in the slightest.
Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles
We have to include one or two sluggers from this year’s rookie class. Look no further than former top prospect Gunnar Henderson, who recently showed off his power with the longest homer to Eutaw Street in Orioles history.
Including Henderson in the event would give fans a closer look at the future of not only the up-and-coming O’s, but the sport. The kid is going to be special. Get him on the national stage.
Juan Soto, San Diego Padres
This one doesn’t need much explanation. Soto is the reigning Home Run Derby champion and it wouldn’t be right to not have him attempt to defend his crown — this time as a member of the Padres.
Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta Braves
Acuña is the frontrunner for the National League MVP award and should win the Comeback Player of the Year award by default. He didn’t look like himself after returning from a torn ACL in 2022, but now he’s better than ever with 15 homers and a .961 OPS to go with his 31 stolen bases.
He competed in the 2019 Home Run Derby but fell to champion Pete Alonso in the semifinals. Now that he’s back to being a bonafide superstar, he should be picked to put on a show in Seattle.
Paul Goldschmidt, St. Louis Cardinals
Goldschmidt is one of baseball’s most anonymous superstars. The man is the reigning NL MVP and has finished top-six in the voting six times in his 13-year career, including twice as the runner-up. He’s a seven-time All-Star and a five-time Silver Slugger. Yet, it still doesn’t feel like he’s appreciated enough by hardcore baseball fans, never mind casuals who may not even know he exists. Goldschmidt has never participated in the Home Run Derby, so now would be a good time to give him more national recognition.
Corbin Carroll, Arizona Diamondbacks
I included a rookie in the American League, so it makes sense to add one from the NL. Carroll is a certified stud. He’s cruising toward the NL Rookie of the Year award and will earn his fair share of MVP votes if he keeps up his current pace. The 22-year-old had 16 homers and leads the NL with a .975 OPS. He’s a huge reason why the D’backs find themselves atop the National League West. If we’re trying to promote the sport’s youngest and brightest stars, Carroll should get the invite to Seattle.
If not Carroll, then get Elly De La Cruz in the mix. I speak for all baseball fans when I say I’d be thrilled with either one. Or both!
Who do you want in this year’s Home Run Derby? Let me know in the comments.
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