MIAMI—The bats were swinging Monday night at Marlins Park for an unforgettable performance by some of baseball’s greatest sluggers.
The 2017 MLB Homerun Derby featured New York’s very own outfielder Aaron Judge and catcher Gary Sanchez. The two entered the game hitting a combined 43 HR’s and 104 RBI’s for their first half of the season
During the first round, both Bronx Bombers were able to push their way to the second round. Gary Sanchez knocked out defending Homerun Derby defending champion, Giancarlo Stanton with 17 homeruns during the first round. Miami Marlins Justin Bour was able to launch 22 impressive homers but still was unable to survive the first round against Aaron Judge’s 23 bombs.
During the second round, Gary Sanchez took on Minnesota Twin’s Miguel Sono. Sanchez with 10 homers was unable to survive the battle against Sono’s 11 homers. Aaron Judge beat Los Angeles Dodger’s Cody Bellinger with 13 homeruns.
Aaron Judge made his way to the final round to face off against Miguel Sono. Sono was able to hit 10 homeruns during the final round but Judge answered back with 11 rockets to win the his first Homerun Derby.
“I had no pressure going into it,” he said. “I’m a rookie. This is my first time doing it. I’ve got no expectations. I’m just going in there and have some fun.”
During the entire derby, Aaron Judge was able to collect 47 homeruns. Judge also hit the longest homer of the night, an estimated 513 feet.
“I had a lot of fun, I hoped the fans enjoyed the show,” Judge told ESPN. “It was an awesome atmosphere. Everyone put on a show here.”
The 2017 MLB Homerun Derby provided the power surge Major League Baseball so desperately needed. Aaron Judge has the hottest bat in baseball and was able display his power on a national platform. The 2017 Homerun Derby is just the beginning of awards Judge will rack under his belt.