Home Run Derby 2012: Power Hitters Who Will Struggle on Big Stage

Give me consistency over power every time. 

Power hitters at Home Run Derbies struggle more often than not. It's the ones with consistency who reign supreme. 

The 2012 Home Run Derby won't be any different. 

Here are three power hitters who will struggle on the big stage. 

Mark Trumbo

We have seen several instance where big-time power hitters flop early in their first appearance in a Home Run Derby. Guys like Jose Bautista even struggle on the big stage.

Mark Trumbo of the Angels is a player who could be either slightly nervous or ready for the moment. Given how this event can even be rough on the best in the game, it's a better bet to say he will be on the nervous side.

Trumbo has hit 21 home runs on the season, after hitting 29 last year. He has a great stroke and is a tremendous talent. I just don't think it will play out like he expects.

Jose Bautista

Some events aren't for everybody. 

Bautista only hit four home runs at last year's derby, and he won't find much more success at this year's version. With a year under his belt, it's easy to predict that he will have a much better performance.

However, some events aren't for everybody. We'll see how big of a step he takes this year.

Matt Kemp

Matt Kemp is more of an all-around type of hitter, but he did smack 39 home runs last season. Considering his numbers—.355, 12 home runs and 28 RBI in only 36 games—Kemp was on pace for another outstanding season at the dish.

But there is a reason he only participated in 36 games—he's been injured. He is currently nursing a hamstring injury, and has recently played a game for High-A Rancho Cucamonga.

Will Kemp be ready to perform at a high level come Monday? I don't see it happening.

Prediction

Robinson Cano over Carlos Gonzalez.