Jeff Passan critiques new MLB Home Run Derby format on Netflix
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 4:45 PM
Last updated Jul 13, 2026
The MLB Home Run Derby is set to debut on Netflix Monday night, marking its first absence from ESPN since 1994. Jeff Passan expressed skepticism regarding the new format, which replaces the swing clock with 20 swings in the first round and 15 in subsequent rounds. He voiced concerns that the event may feel slow without the timer, which previously added urgency. Prominent hitters like Junior Caminero, Kyle Schwarber, and Bryce Harper are participating. The format change comes after MLB and Netflix sought player feedback to enhance the Derby experience.
- •Home Run Derby occurs on Netflix for the first time.
- •Format eliminates the swing clock and adjusts swing limits.
- •Passan warns the event may lack excitement and pacing.
- •Top players like Junior Caminero and Bryce Harper are involved.
- •Players had a role in deciding the event's updated format.
- 4:45 PMYahoo Sports — Jeff Passan predicts new-look MLB Home Run Derby is ‘gonna stink’
"If you’re going to watch the MLB Home Run Derby on Netflix Monday night, you’re probably not doing it because of a sales pitch from Jeff Passan. For the first time since 1994, the Home Run Derby won’t be on ESPN, and for the first time since 2014, the new-look Derby won’t feature a swing…
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- MLB•Jul 13, 2026, 11:53 PMDodgers on Deck: Friday, July 17 at Yankees
- MLB•Jul 13, 2026, 11:40 PMChase Burns gave Kyle Schwarber a 'hard time' at MLB All-Star Game
- MLB•Jul 13, 2026, 11:36 PMJuan Soto thinks All-Star break can benefit struggling Mets, expresses confidence in turnaround: ‘Keep believing’
- MLB•Jul 13, 2026, 11:13 PM‘People are gonna hate me’: Multiple Dodgers skipping White House visit with Donald Trump in office
- MLB•Jul 13, 2026, 11:10 PMBryce Harper says Home Run Derby will be his last 'no matter what'
- MLB•Jul 13, 2026, 11:06 PMOne Clear Theme Defined White Sox 2026 MLB Draft Class
