The Home Run Derby returns once again, and (surprisingly) Orioles fans have a reason to tune in. Beyond a general appreciation for long fly balls, we will also get to enjoy the appearance of franchise cornerstone Adley Rutschman, the eight seed in this year’s field.
Rutschman’s inclusion is something of a surprise. For starters, he’s a catcher. That is not a popular position for derby contestants and none have ever won the competition. And it’s not like he is a noteworthy exception there. Rutschman has been out-homered on his own team by two other players (Anthony Santander and Gunnar Henderson) this season and is tied for 34th in the AL for home runs hit.