As the old saying goes in Texas, go big or go home—and in the case of the 2024 Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field in Arlington, it’s the home runs that are aiming to match the state’s storied grandeur. Come Monday, eight of baseball’s elite sluggers will step into this expansive, climate-controlled stadium to dazzle fans with their might and precision in striking the long ball.

This year’s Derby ushers in several strategic adjustments that have transformed both the structure and the pace of the event. Gone are the preliminary head-to-head battles; instead, the first round will implement a leaderboard approach where all competitors take their swings and the top four advance based on their home run totals. This sets the stage for semifinal matches, where the first seed takes on the fourth, and the second wrestles the third.

The format isn’t the only thing that’s changed. A cap on total pitches—40 in the initial two rounds and 27 in the finale—aims to reign in the event’s free-wheeling energy and slow down the proceedings. Meanwhile, in the bonus round, a player will conclude their turn after recording three outs unless they dispatch a homer stretching at least 425 feet, which would earn them an additional out.

As the Derby draws near, let’s evaluate some of the most talked-about contenders:

**Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles** enters as a promising young talent. At just 23 years old, he could become the youngest player to win this slugfest. With Henderson swinging furiously for the fences, the exceptional mentoring from Buck Britton, his Triple-A manager, could be the catalyst he needs to triumph.

**Marcell Ozuna of the Atlanta Braves** has had a controversial path back to prominence in MLB. His remarkable comeback this season could see another high if he secures the Derby crown, but his participation has certainly sparked debate due to his troubled past.

**José Ramirez of the Cleveland Guardians** brings an exciting twist as a potential first switch-hitter champion. Last year, a thumb injury limited his capabilities, but 2024 could very well be his year to make history.

**Teoscar Hernández of the Los Angeles Dodgers**, a first-time Derby participant, could find comfort in Dodgers third-base coach Dino Ebel’s expertise. Ebel is no stranger to this event, having pitched to several high-profile players in previous Derbies.

**Pete Alonso of the New York Mets**, a Derby enthusiast and two-time champion, is always a notable competitor. His drive and determination are palpable, and under the skilled pitching of Dave Jauss, he’s all set for another possible title run that could tie him with Ken Griffey Jr.

**Adolis García of the Texas Rangers** plays as the hometown hero, looking to make a splash in front of a familiar crowd. His disappointing show last year is something he’s eager to redeem.

**Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals** is virtually playing in his backyard and could leverage his intimate knowledge of the local environment. His familial sporting legacy, especially with James Russell’s pitching, could add to his edge.

And finally, **Alec Bohm of the Philadelphia Phillies** may be more known for his doubles, but he possesses an impressive home run strike that shouldn’t be underestimated, especially given his history of winning a derby in college.

As Globe Life Field sets the stage for what promises to be an electrifying display of power, strategy, and sporting prowess, each slugger will not only aim for the fences but also for a special place in baseball’s rousing Home Run Derby history.