Braves' Marcell Ozuna to Compete in 2024 MLB Home Run Derby; Joins Alonso, Bohm, More

Atlanta Braves designated hitter Marcell Ozuna will compete in this year's Home Run Derby, MLB announced on Monday.

Ozuna joins a group of elite sluggers in the Home Run Derby. Also participating is New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso, Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm, Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson and Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr.

Ozuna, also an All-Star this year, will be competing in the Home Run Derby for the first time in his career.

Ozuna, a 12-year veteran, has slugged 23 home runs this season, tied for the fourth most in the majors. He also has the third-most RBI with 72, the eighth-best OPS at .944 and has recorded a .295 batting average this season.

Last season, he had a career-high 40 homers. He is on pace to surpass the 40-home run mark again this year.

This year marks Ozuna's third time being selected as an All-Star, but his first time since 2017 when he was with the Marlins. With Atlanta dealing with a number of injured players, Ozuna has stepped up and been one of the team's most valuable contributors on offense this year, leading the team in almost every betting statistic.

"For me, it's amazing to bring my kids to [the All-Star Game] again," Ozuna said after being named an All-Star, per MLB.com's Rick Farlow. "They grew up a little bit and they're big and they've learned about baseball. It's a new experience for them."

Joining Ozuna in Arlington next week are Braves starting pitchers Reynaldo López and Chris Sale.

The Home Run Derby will take place Monday, July 15 at Globe Life Field with the All-Star Game coming the next day on July 16.