Dodgers’ Hernández secured the Home Run Derby title over Royals’ Witt, while Alonso’s attempt for a third consecutive win concluded in the first round.

During the Home Run Derby, Teoscar Hernández found a calming influence in former teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who unexpectedly showed support by wearing a Blue Jays jersey with Hernández’s name and number. This gesture helped Hernández stay composed and focused throughout the competition. Ultimately, Hernández clinched the derby title by edging out local favorite Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals 14-13 in a thrilling final round on Monday night.

Hernández, 31 years old, smashed a total of 49 home runs across three rounds, covering a combined distance of 3.98 miles. His victory marked a first for a Dodgers player in the derby, highlighting his determination and confidence despite perhaps being underestimated by some. Witt, the 24-year-old phenom from the Royals, matched Hernández with 11 homers in the final round before bonus swings were decisive, falling just short of the title.

Earlier in the evening, Witt impressed by eliminating José Ramírez of the Cleveland Indians in the semifinals, while Hernández advanced past Alec Bohm of the Philadelphia Phillies in a tight matchup decided by a tiebreaker.

Pete Alonso of the New York Mets, aiming to become a three-time derby champion, faltered with only 12 homers in the opening round, ending his bid. The competition format differed from previous years, with the top four hitters from the initial round advancing to the semifinals, setting up a bracket-style showdown.

The derby, held indoors at Globe Life Field to combat the scorching Texas heat, featured impressive displays of power, including Marcell Ozuna’s towering 473-foot blast, the longest of the night. Despite the challenges and intense competition, participants like Bohm emphasized the joy of competing on such a grand stage, even in defeat.

Overall, the event showcased both the competitive spirit and camaraderie among baseball’s top sluggers, with Hernández emerging as the deserving victor, buoyed by Guerrero Jr.’s heartfelt support.