Top 5 Most Unforgettable Home Run Derby Performances in MLB History

Relive the most iconic moments in MLB Home Run Derby history, featuring legendary performances by Josh Hamilton, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and more.

Josh Hamilton's Legendary 2008 First Round

In the final season of the old Yankee Stadium, Josh Hamilton delivered a performance for the ages. During the first round, he belted 28 home runs, including a mesmerizing 13 in 13 swings at one point. Seven of his homers went at least 500 feet, with a 518-foot blast off the back wall of the bleachers. Despite losing in the finals to Justin Morneau, Hamilton's first round remains a Home Run Derby masterpiece.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Joc Pederson's Epic 2019 Duel

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Joc Pederson's 2019 showdown is one of the most thrilling in Derby history. Guerrero Jr. broke Josh Hamilton's single-round record with 29 home runs in the first round. The second round saw both players tied at 29, leading to multiple swing-offs. Guerrero Jr. eventually prevailed 40 to 39, though he lost to Pete Alonso in the finals.

Aaron Judge's Rookie Record in 2017

Aaron Judge entered the 2017 Home Run Derby with 30 home runs, on his way to a rookie record of 52. Judge lived up to the hype, including four blasts of 500-plus feet, the only player to reach 500 that year. He defeated Cody Bellinger and Miguel Sano to claim the title.

Giancarlo Stanton's Power Display in 2016

Giancarlo Stanton's 2016 performance was a showcase of raw power. He hit 61 home runs on his way to the title, with rounds of 24, 17, and 20. Stanton's homers included the 20 hardest-hit and 18 of the 19 longest of the contest, averaging 446 feet per home run.

Bobby Abreu's Record-Breaking 2005 Round

Bobby Abreu's 2005 first round was historic. He cranked 24 home runs, shattering Miguel Tejada's previous one-round record of 15. Abreu's round lasted 17 minutes, and he went on to win the Derby, beating Ivan Rodriguez in the finals.

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