With the new format completely integrated for the 2015 MLB Home Run Derby, Todd Frazier out-slugged Joc Pederson to take home the crown.
By Robby Sabo
Anybody who had second-thoughts about the new format for the 2015 MLB Home Run Derby, has just been seated quietly.
The new time format not only sped up the contest, but it provided an element of drama – something we haven’t seen in the derby in quite some time. There was excitement and actual crowd noise tonight as opposed to previous versions that featured batters taking a quarter of the pitches.
Drama was what the hometown guy was all about tonight.
Cincinnati Reds third-baseman Todd Frazier came back against Prince Fielder in the first round and then defeated Josh Donaldson on a “walk-off” derby home run during the second-round.
How about this shot heard around the world! @FlavaFraz21 advances. #AllStarNOW pic.twitter.com/QwgULyycnJ
— Brad Hawley (@Fox19Brad) July 14, 2015
Frazier set the stage for a head to head matchup against the 23-year old rookie outfielder from the Los Angeles Dodgers, Joc Pederson. Pederson lived on the edge against Albert Pujols in the second round, but advanced nonetheless after Albert had issues with his bottom hand towards the end of his round.
In the finals, Pederson knocked 14 out of the park as his tired arms went first. Pederson also smashed the longest home run of the night which measured 387′.
However, it was not enough as momentum was all with the hometown guy. Frazier rallied late and tied Pederson’s 14 in regulation, barely missing out on 15 for the win with the last crack of the bat.
With his brother throwing him the first pitch of the bonus time round, Frazier smashed No. 15 for the dramatic win.
And NEEEEEW #HRDerby champion!!! pic.twitter.com/489jVbb3NZ
— Adam Meyer (@FOXSportsMeyer) July 14, 2015
Yes, the timed-clock MLB Home Run Derby is officially “a thing.” The baseball player who grew up in Toms River, New Jersey is the derby champ.
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