As a young baseball enthusiast, the idea of being in the outfield to catch fly balls during the Home Run Derby seems thrilling at first. However, reality can be harsh. This was evident during Monday night’s Home Run Derby, when Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the first baseman for the Blue Jays, hit a powerful line drive into the outfield, accidentally striking a young fan in the face. The impact was intense, with the ball traveling at a speed of 115.8 mph, causing the young fan to collapse. Thankfully, an eyewitness at the event reported that the child received immediate medical attention and was treated with an ice pack. The crowd showed their support and cheered for him.
Despite this unfortunate incident, Guerrero Jr. continued to display his exceptional talent, hitting 25 home runs in the final round. This outstanding performance allowed him to surpass Randy Arozarena, an outfielder for the Rays, and claim the coveted Home Run Derby title. Notably, this victory also meant that Guerrero Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps, Vladimir Guerrero Sr., who won the Home Run Derby in 2007 while playing for the Angels. This father-son duo made history, becoming the first in MLB to both capture the Derby title.
Throughout the event, Guerrero Jr. delivered an impressive total of 72 home runs, overpowering Mookie Betts in the first round and outlasting fan favorite Julio Rodríguez in the second round before ultimately defeating Arozarena. His exceptional performance solidified his position as the crown-winner in Seattle.
Unfortunately, incidents like these are not unprecedented in the Home Run Derby. Children selected to participate in the outfield are often put in harm’s way. They are typically chosen through MLB community groups, partnerships, and contests. This serves as a reminder of a similar incident during the 2021 Home Run Derby, when Pete Alonso, a star player for the Mets, accidentally hit a child with a line drive.
The Home Run Derby is an anticipated event that precedes the MLB All-Star Game, scheduled for Tuesday night at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park.
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