Each MLB player joins the Home Run Derby for a different reason.
Pete Alonso does it every year because he loves the event.
But not every player is like Alonso.
Some only want to do the event one time just to cross it off their bucket list.
That was the case with Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts.
But, Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had a different reason for doing the contest.
According to Sarah Langs, Guerrero’s daughter asked him to compete in the contest.
why did Vlad do the Derby this year?
HIS DAUGHTER ASKED HIM TO
MY HEART
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) July 11, 2023
It was a good thing she did because Guerrero put on a show for all the fans.
He won the contest by defeating Randy Arozarena in the final round.
Guerrero showed off his raw power as he was consistently launching the ball 440+ feet.
It was the second time he did the contest, after he came in second place back in 2019.
Now that Guerrero has won the contest he and his father have become the first father-son duo to win a Home Run Derby.
Vladdy smashed an incredible 72 home runs on Monday night.
He set the record for most home runs hit in a Derby back in 2019 with 91.
His ability to hit the ball hard makes him perfect for this contest.
Guerrero is second in baseball in balls hit 95+ MPH.
According to Statcast, he has done so 161 times.
It will be interesting to see if Guerrero looks to defend his title next year.
But for at least the next year he can call himself the Home Run Derby king.
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ESPN Made An Embarrassing Error Surrounding Vladimir Guerrero Jr.