One of the most thrilling events in Major League Baseball is taking place tonight as the Home Run Derby kicks off at Truist Park in Atlanta at 7:00 p.m. CT, broadcast nationally on ESPN. While the Milwaukee Brewers do not have any representatives competing this year, the team’s history in the Derby boasts both remarkable triumphs and some less stellar performances.
From 1996 to 2018, a Brewer took part in 12 of the 23 Home Run Derbies. Notable participants include Prince Fielder, who made three appearances, and Richie Sexson with two. The last time a Brewer participated was Jesús Aguilar in 2018, although Christian Yelich was slated to compete in the 2019 Derby but withdrew due to back issues.
Reflecting on the Brewers’ history at the Home Run Derby reveals highlights, particularly Prince Fielder’s 2009 performance, when he became the first Brewer to win the event. Fielder triumphed at Busch Stadium—home to the rival St. Louis Cardinals—showing off his power with an impressive 503-foot home run. It required just six home runs to clinch victory over Nelson Cruz, marking an incredibly memorable night for the Brewers’ slugger.
On the flipside, Greg Vaughn’s 1996 Derby experience was not as triumphant. Vaughn infamously left the event without hitting a single home run, a moment that may linger in the minds of players and fans alike. Despite his struggles that night, Vaughn made history as the first Brewer to compete in the Home Run Derby.
As fans celebrate the excitement of this year’s event, the Brewers’ past experiences in the Derby serve as a reminder of the highs and lows that come with competing on such a big stage. It highlights not only the individual prowess of players like Fielder but also the camaraderie and history shared by the franchise’s past and present athletes.