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MLB Home Run Derby eliminates clock format for 2026 All-Star Game
Major League Baseball has eliminated the clock from the Home Run Derby, implementing a swing-based format for the 2026 All-Star Game in Philadelphia. Batters receive 20 swings in the first round and 15 in subsequent rounds, with the ability to continue batting if they hit a home run on their final swing, while ESPN's 32-year broadcast tenure ends as Netflix takes over coverage.
Quick Facts
Who
Major League Baseball
What
Elimination of timed clock format from Home Run Derby
When
July 13, 2026
Where
Citizens Bank Park
- Elimination of timed clock format from Home Run Derby
- Implementation of swing-based competition format
- Broadcast rights transfer from ESPN to Netflix
- Introduction of continuation batting rule for final swings
- Implementation of best-of-three swing tiebreaker system
Major League Baseball has announced significant format changes for the 2026 Home Run Derby, eliminating the timed format that has governed the competition for decades. The event will take place at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on July 13, 2026.
Under the new format, each batter will receive 20 swings during the first round. A notable rule change allows batters who hit a home run on their 20th swing to continue batting until they fail to hit a home run, extending their opportunity at the plate. The top four finishers advance to subsequent rounds, with home run distance serving as a tiebreaker.
The second round features a revised bracket system where the top seed faces the fourth seed and the second seed competes against the third seed. Each participant receives 15 swings in the second round, with the same continuation privilege for batters connecting on their final swing. Ties in the second round and finals will be decided by a best-of-three swing playoff. The format eliminates bonus rounds entirely.
Why This Matters
For baseball fans and media consumers, this format change fundamentally alters the strategic and viewing experience of one of the sport's most popular all-star events. The swing-based system removes time pressure, potentially allowing more dramatic rallies and deeper showcases of power-hitting talent. The Netflix transition marks a watershed moment in baseball's media landscape, signaling how major sports properties are diversifying broadcast platforms to reach younger, streaming-native audiences.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 1994
WireESPN begins broadcasting Home Run Derby
Jun 18, 2026
WireMLB announces clock elimination and new format rules
Jul 13, 2026
Wire2026 Home Run Derby takes place at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia