In a Home-Run Derby that didn't feature many engaging story lines, Derby veteran Ortiz wins the contest for the first time in his career. For many, Ortiz was the favorite for this contest as he was one of a few players who actually played in the contest before. Generally, first time participants do not fare so well. Besides Big Papi, Miguel Cabrera was the favorite for many going into tonight.
Chris Young (1), Wells (2), Swisher (4) and Holliday (5) were all eliminated in the first round. The total amount was slightly surprising for Wells and Swisher who were both considered outside chance winners for the Derby tonight. The star of the first round was Cory Hart who provided that wow factor belting out 13 jacks. Also advancing was Ortiz, Cabrera and Ramirez.
The second round really belonged to Oritz and Ramirez who hit 13 and 12 homers respectively. They really put on a show as David had his classic swing and Hanely was really smacking those balls hard out of the park. Cabrera hit 5, and that wasn't enough to crack the top 3. Hart had a good chance coming into this round only needing to hit 8, however the long, about 90 minute break, from hitting had him go cold and he wasn't able to connect on anything.
David Ortiz opened the final round in a big way with 11 homers and Hanley could only respond with 5.
