"Let's run it back" - Guardians slugger Jose Ramirez confirms Home Run Derby participation on social media
Cleveland Guardians slugger Jose Ramirez is having a solid 2024 season. The four-time Silver Slugger is hitting .269/.320/.526 with 23 home runs and 76 runs batted in, good enough to be voted an All-Star yet again.
Ramirez is now a six-time All-Star, and this will be his fourth consecutive appearance since 2021. He was also named a starter alongside his teammate Steven Kwan.
While making his sixth All-Star Game appearance, Ramirez will also make his second Home Run Derby appearance. He confirmed his participation on Tuesday afternoon on social media.
"Let's run it back" - said Ramirez.
Ramirez is now the sixth MLB slugger to announce their participation in the exciting event. He will be looking to avenge his first-round exit from the 2022 Home Run Derby.
J-Ram was dealing with a thumb injury in 2022 that made him hit from the right side. Traditionally, he produces much more power as a left-handed batter, and this will likely be the side he hits on this year.
This year, fans will notice a new format for the Home Run Derby. Instead of head-to-head matchups in the first round, all eight participants will battle each other. After that, head-to-head matchups will decide a winner.
Who will join Jose Ramirez in the 2024 Home Run Derby?
Jose Ramirez is just the latest slugger to announce his participation in the 2024 Home Run Derby. It is shaping up to be an exciting one, with five others who are ready to swing for the fences.
Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson was the first to commit. He has been on a tear this season and is looking to become the first O's player to win it since Miguel Tejada in 2004.
Philadelphia Phillies slugger Alec Bohm became the second player to commit, while New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso became the third. Alonso is a favorite here among many fans, having won it twice in 2019 and 2021.
Shortly after Alonso, Bobby Witt Jr. committed. He will be looking to become the first Kansas City Royals slugger to win the event.
The list of six wraps up with Atlanta Braves star Marcell Ozuna. He announced his commitment on July 8, and like Witt, he is searching to become his team's first Home Run Derby champ.
Fans still can look forward to two more sluggers announcing their participation very soon.