Vladimir Guerrero Jr. claimed his first Home Run Derby title in a thrilling showdown against Randy Arozarena on Monday night, edging out the Rays slugger by just two home runs. The Toronto Blue Jays star launched 25 dingers in the final round, holding off a late surge from Arozarena, who finished with 23.
Guerrero, batting first in the final round, set a high bar with 20 home runs before even reaching his bonus time. Arozarena, after a slow start, mounted an impressive comeback, nearly catching Guerrero before falling just short. This victory marks a significant milestone for Guerrero, who nearly won the competition in 2019, losing to Pete Alonso in the finals.
To reach the final, Guerrero bested Seattle Mariners' Julio Rodriguez in a nail-biting 21-20 semifinal match. Arozarena secured his spot by defeating Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. 35-25. This win also makes Guerrero and his father, Vladimir Guerrero Sr., the first father-son duo to win the Home Run Derby, with the elder Guerrero winning the title in 2007.
The focus now shifts to the MLB All-Star Game, set for Tuesday night, with Gerrit Cole starting for the American League and Zac Gallen for the National League. The game will be broadcast on FOX at 8 p.m. ET.
