Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is one of those players fans are eager to see in the Home Run Derby again, but in recent editions of the event, he’s chosen not to participate—and his latest decision is no different.
“Vladimir Guerrero Jr. told me he will not be participating in this year’s Home Run Derby,” reported Hazel Mae. When she asked if there was any chance he might change his mind, Guerrero replied firmly: “No. N.O.”
Plenty of players have opted out of the event, but the desire to see Guerrero Jr. compete remains high—especially since he set a record during the 2019 MLB Derby that still ranks among one of the best in history.
When Was Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Last Home Run Derby?
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s most recent Home Run Derby appearance was during the 2023 edition, which he won. This victory was particularly historic as he and his father, Vladimir Guerrero Sr. (who won in 2007), became the first father-son duo to claim the Derby title.
Guerrero Sr.’s 2007 Derby performance is also notable as one of the most-watched in the event’s history, drawing 6.8 million viewers, making it the ninth most-viewed Derby. Vladimir Sr. hit a total of 17 home runs en route to his victory.
Two Key Derby Records for Guerrero Jr.
In the 2019 Derby, Guerrero Jr. reached the final but ultimately fell to Pete Alonso by a single home run (23-22). Despite the loss, that year allowed him to set a Derby record with 91 home runs in a single round. He then set another top ten record in 2023, hitting a total of 72 home runs throughout the competition to secure the win.