What the 2019 Home Run Derby Means for the Current Era of MLB
In some ways, the 2019 Home Run Derby was a microcosm of the state of MLB and where it is likely headed in the future. Here’s why.
Before we get into the conspiracy theories from Justin Verlander about juiced baseballs (psst he may be right, but that’s another story for another day..), let’s focus on this one amazing fact: The 2019 MLB Home Run Derby might go down as one of the most exciting and awe-inspiring events that this generation has seen.
If you’re new to this thought sit back and let the following reasons convince you. After this past week, the identity of baseball has officially changed. Here’s why:
HISTORY
The world of MLB was lucky to see history occur during the Home Run Derby. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. finished with 91 total home runs but came up short against Pete Alonso, who hit a solid 23 home runs in the final round of the derby.
Even though Guerrero Jr. lost that derby, in a way he still won. How? Simple, because that derby brought back an era of legendary tales.
THE ERA OF THE POTENTIAL NEO LEGEND STORY
More from Call to the Pen
- Philadelphia Phillies, ready for a stretch run, bomb St. Louis Cardinals
- Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
- Boston Red Sox fans should be upset over Mookie Betts’ comment
- Analyzing the Boston Red Sox trade for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen
- 2023 MLB postseason likely to have a strange look without Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals
Whether people are aware of it or not, this could potentially have christened an era of the neoclassic legend stories have returned. Whatever occurred last week was of things that existed during the age of Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio and Cy Young, and Cal Ripken Jr.
All of these players mentioned gave kids the ability to grow up and tell their children or grandkids about where they were when Vlad Guerrero Jr. broke the Home Run Derby records.
Now before someone reads this and says, ” hold on…this is just a Home Run Derby and those were World Series legends, this kid hasn’t proven himself yet in the league. Calm down!” Which are true words, let the explanations marinate first.
Yes, he’s a rookie and, yes, he has some big shoes to fill in this league no doubt, BUT for that night he potentially sparked hopes for a career for Cooperstown. Now that is something to write home about.
THE DIRECTION OF THE GAME
Welcome to the age of inflated numbers and nightmares for pitchers.
Revolutionizing a game where defense once reigned supreme is difficult. This new age of the long ball is often met with restraint, stubbornness, and an abundance of conspiracy theories.
However, this new train is coming whether people like it or not. This Home Run Derby is indicative of where MLB is going which is the long ball.
Despite his loss in the round, Vlad Jr. walked away with 91 total home runs, which left fans of the game are excited. Rob Manfred isn’t letting that go anytime soon. Expect the game to be adjusted and more high run having games.
WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?
Overall, this Home Run Derby was probably one of the most jaw-dropping awe-inspiring events to be seen in a long time.
So… where do we go from here?
500 ft homers, that’s where. Be prepared to see an era of the long ball to continue. Now, I wouldn’t say it will be like to the level of the ’90s, but if this kid stays on his trajectory, Vlad Jr, is going to be the face of the new MLB.
Next. San Diego Padres: Chris Paddack Seeks Redemption. dark
This Home Run Derby is one way or the other the turning point for the game and will definitely keep managers and pitching coaches up for nights to come.