The 2024 MLB season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with several players vying for the coveted home run title. From established sluggers to up-and-coming stars, the race to the top of the leaderboard is sure to be a thrilling one.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top contenders for the 2024 MLB home run crown, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and chances of leading the league in dingers. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as we delve into the world of baseball’s long ball.
With spring training just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about who will lead the MLB in home runs in 2024. There are a number of players who could contend for the title, but here are a few of the favorites:
2024 Mlb Home Run Leaders
With the 2024 MLB season on the horizon, anticipation is building for the race to lead the league in home runs. Here are eight important points to keep in mind:
- Aaron Judge’s pursuit of 70
- Soto’s quest for back-to-back titles
- Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s power surge
- Mike Trout’s return to dominance
- Yordan Alvarez’s breakout season
- Ronald Acuña Jr.’s injury comeback
- Freddie Freeman’s new chapter in Los Angeles
- Newcomers to watch: Corbin Carroll and Wander Franco
With so many talented sluggers in the mix, the 2024 MLB home run race is sure to be one for the ages. Stay tuned to see who comes out on top!
Aaron Judge’s pursuit of 70
Aaron Judge’s pursuit of 70 home runs in 2023 fell just short, but the New York Yankees slugger is determined to reach the milestone in 2024.
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Judge’s power surge: Judge has always possessed immense power, but he took it to another level in 2023, launching 62 home runs, the most in the American League since Barry Bonds hit 73 in 2001.
With his combination of size, strength, and bat speed, Judge is capable of hitting towering home runs to all fields.
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The short porch in Yankee Stadium: Yankee Stadium is known for its short right field porch, which has helped Judge pad his home run totals.
In 2023, 19 of Judge’s 62 home runs came at home, and he is likely to benefit from the short porch again in 2024.
- A lineup that protects him: Judge is not the only dangerous hitter in the Yankees lineup. Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo, and DJ LeMahieu are all capable of hitting 30-plus home runs, which should give Judge plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and boost his home run total.
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Health and durability: Judge has been remarkably durable throughout his career, playing in at least 155 games in each of the past four seasons.
If he can stay healthy in 2024, he will have a good chance of reaching 70 home runs.
Judge is aware of the magnitude of his goal, but he is confident that he can achieve it. “I think it’s definitely doable,” Judge said. “I’m not going to put a limit on myself. I’m just going to go out there and play my game and see what happens.”
Soto’s quest for back-to-back titles
Juan Soto is one of the most exciting young players in baseball, and he is already a two-time Silver Slugger and two-time All-Star. In 2023, he became the youngest player in MLB history to win two home run titles.
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Soto’s elite bat skills: Soto has a combination of power, bat speed, and plate discipline that is rare for a player his age. He is able to hit the ball with authority to all fields, and he is also very good at drawing walks.
In 2023, Soto led the National League in on-base percentage (.465) and walks (145).
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The Nationals’ lineup: The Nationals’ lineup is not as strong as it was a few years ago, but Soto is still the clear leader of the offense. He will have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and boost his home run total.
In 2023, Soto had 95 RBIs, which was second in the National League.
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Soto’s work ethic: Soto is known for his dedication to his craft. He is always working to improve his skills, and he is always looking for ways to get better.
His hard work has paid off, as he has quickly become one of the best hitters in baseball.
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The Nationals’ home park: Nationals Park is a hitter-friendly ballpark, which should help Soto in his quest for back-to-back home run titles.
In 2023, Soto hit 25 of his 34 home runs at home.
Soto is confident that he can win another home run title in 2024. “I’m always looking to improve,” Soto said. “I want to be the best player I can be. If I can hit more home runs, that’s great. But I’m not going to put any pressure on myself. I’m just going to go out there and play my game.”
Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s power surge
Vlad Guerrero Jr. is one of the most exciting young players in baseball, and he is already a two-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger. In 2023, he took a step forward in his development, hitting 40 home runs and driving in 115 RBIs.
There are a few reasons why Guerrero Jr. is poised for an even bigger power surge in 2024:
- Improved swing mechanics: Guerrero Jr. has been working with hitting coach Guillermo Martinez to improve his swing mechanics. The goal is to get Guerrero Jr. to generate more power from his lower body and to improve his bat speed.
- More consistent approach at the plate: Guerrero Jr. is known for his aggressive approach at the plate, but he is working on being more selective and patient. He wants to get more pitches to hit and to drive the ball with authority.
- Stronger supporting cast: The Blue Jays have added some big bats to their lineup, including outfielder George Springer and first baseman Brandon Belt. This should take some of the pressure off of Guerrero Jr. and allow him to relax and focus on his swing.
- Rogers Centre is a hitter-friendly ballpark: The Blue Jays’ home stadium is known for being a hitter-friendly ballpark. This should help Guerrero Jr. pad his home run total in 2024.
Guerrero Jr. is confident that he can reach new heights in 2024. “I’m always looking to improve,” Guerrero Jr. said. “I want to be the best player I can be. I’m going to work hard this offseason to get ready for the 2024 season. I think I can hit 50 home runs next year.”
If Guerrero Jr. can continue to develop and improve his skills, he has the potential to be one of the most dominant hitters in baseball. He is a legitimate threat to win the home run title in 2024.
Mike Trout’s return to dominance
Mike Trout is one of the greatest baseball players of all time, but he has been hampered by injuries in recent years. In 2023, he missed 60 games due to a back injury. However, Trout is now healthy and ready to return to dominance in 2024.
There are a few reasons why Trout is poised for a big season in 2024:
- Healthy and motivated: Trout is now fully recovered from his back injury and he is more motivated than ever to prove that he is still the best player in baseball.
- Still has elite skills: Even though Trout has missed some games due to injuries in recent years, he has still been one of the most productive players in baseball when he has been on the field. He is a five-tool player with power, speed, and a great eye at the plate.
- Strong supporting cast: The Angels have a strong lineup with Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and Anthony Rendon. This should give Trout plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and boost his home run total.
- Angel Stadium is a hitter-friendly ballpark: The Angels’ home stadium is known for being a hitter-friendly ballpark. This should help Trout pad his home run total in 2024.
Trout is confident that he can return to his old form in 2024. “I’m feeling really good,” Trout said. “I’m healthy and I’m excited to get back on the field. I think this is going to be a big year for me.”
If Trout can stay healthy and produce at his usual level, he is a legitimate threat to win the home run title in 2024. He is one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball and he is always a threat to go deep.
Yordan Alvarez’s breakout season
Yordan Alvarez is one of the most exciting young players in baseball. In 2021, he won the American League Rookie of the Year award after hitting 37 home runs and driving in 104 RBIs. In 2023, he took another step forward, hitting 35 home runs and driving in 102 RBIs.
There are a few reasons why Alvarez is poised for an even bigger breakout season in 2024:
- Improved plate discipline: Alvarez has been working on improving his plate discipline and he is now more patient at the plate. This should help him draw more walks and get more pitches to hit.
- Stronger supporting cast: The Astros have a strong lineup with Alvarez, Jose Altuve, and Alex Bregman. This should give Alvarez plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and boost his home run total.
- Minute Maid Park is a hitter-friendly ballpark: The Astros’ home stadium is known for being a hitter-friendly ballpark. This should help Alvarez pad his home run total in 2024.
Alvarez is confident that he can have a big season in 2024. “I’m feeling really good,” Alvarez said. “I’m working hard and I’m ready to go. I think this is going to be a big year for me.”
If Alvarez can continue to develop and improve his skills, he has the potential to be one of the best hitters in baseball. He is a legitimate threat to win the home run title in 2024.
Ronald Acuña Jr.’s injury comeback
Ronald Acuña Jr. is one of the most exciting young players in baseball. In 2019, he was named the National League Rookie of the Year after hitting 41 home runs and stealing 37 bases. However, he missed most of the 2021 and 2023 seasons due to a torn ACL.
Acuña Jr. is now healthy and ready to make a comeback in 2024. He is expected to be a key part of the Braves’ offense, along with Matt Olson and Austin Riley.
There are a few reasons why Acuña Jr. is poised for a big season in 2024:
- Healthy and motivated: Acuña Jr. is now fully recovered from his ACL injury and he is more motivated than ever to prove that he is still one of the best players in baseball.
- Still has elite skills: Even though Acuña Jr. missed most of the past two seasons, he is still a five-tool player with power, speed, and a great eye at the plate.
- Strong supporting cast: The Braves have a strong lineup with Acuña Jr., Olson, and Riley. This should give Acuña Jr. plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and boost his home run total.
- Truist Park is a hitter-friendly ballpark: The Braves’ home stadium is known for being a hitter-friendly ballpark. This should help Acuña Jr. pad his home run total in 2024.
Acuña Jr. is confident that he can have a big season in 2024. “I’m feeling really good,” Acuña Jr. said. “I’m healthy and I’m excited to get back on the field. I think this is going to be a big year for me.”
If Acuña Jr. can stay healthy and produce at his usual level, he is a legitimate threat to win the home run title in 2024. He is one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball and he is always a threat to go deep.
Freddie Freeman’s new chapter in Los Angeles
Freddie Freeman is one of the most consistent hitters in baseball. He has won two Silver Sluggers and a Gold Glove Award. In 2021, he led the National League in batting average (.341) and on-base percentage (.462). However, after 12 seasons with the Braves, Freeman signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023.
- New team, new motivation: Freeman is excited to be a part of the Dodgers, who are one of the best teams in baseball. He is motivated to help the Dodgers win their first World Series since 2020.
- Strong supporting cast: The Dodgers have a stacked lineup with Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Trea Turner. This should give Freeman plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and boost his home run total.
- Dodger Stadium is a hitter-friendly ballpark: Dodger Stadium is known for being a hitter-friendly ballpark. This should help Freeman pad his home run total in 2024.
Freeman is confident that he can have a big season in 2024. “I’m excited to be a part of the Dodgers,” Freeman said. “I think we have a great team and I’m looking forward to helping us win a World Series.”
Newcomers to watch: Corbin Carroll and Wander Franco
Corbin Carroll and Wander Franco are two of the most highly touted prospects in baseball. Both players are expected to make their MLB debuts in 2024 and they could both be in the running for the home run title.
Corbin Carroll:
- Tools for success: Carroll has all the tools to be a star. He is a five-tool player with power, speed, and a great eye at the plate.
- Minor league success: Carroll dominated the minor leagues in 2023, hitting .307 with 24 home runs and 25 stolen bases. He was also named the Arizona Fall League MVP.
- MLB-ready: Carroll is considered to be one of the most MLB-ready prospects in baseball. He is expected to make an immediate impact for the Diamondbacks in 2024.
Wander Franco:
- Can’t-miss prospect: Franco is one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory. He is a switch-hitter with power from both sides of the plate.
- Minor league success: Franco has also dominated the minor leagues, hitting .315 with 20 home runs and 25 stolen bases in 2023. He was also named the International League MVP.
- Rays’ future: Franco is the centerpiece of the Rays’ future. He is expected to be a key part of their offense for years to come.
Carroll and Franco are both exciting young players with the potential to be stars in the MLB. If they can live up to the hype, they could both be in the running for the home run title in 2024.
These are just a few of the players who could be in the running for the 2024 MLB home run title. With so many talented sluggers in the league, it is sure to be an exciting race to the finish.
FAQ
Have questions about the 2024 MLB home run race? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers:
Question 1: Who are the favorites to win the 2024 MLB home run title?
Answer 1: Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are the top three favorites to win the 2024 MLB home run title. All three players have shown incredible power in recent seasons and are expected to continue mashing in 2024.
Question 2: Which newcomers could make a run at the home run title in 2024?
Answer 2: Corbin Carroll and Wander Franco are two highly touted prospects who could make an immediate impact in the MLB in 2024. Both players have shown impressive power in the minor leagues and could be in the running for the home run title if they can adjust to the MLB quickly.
Question 3: Which teams have the most home run power in 2024?
Answer 3: The New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers are the three teams with the most home run power in 2024. All three teams have multiple players who can hit 30 or more home runs, making them dangerous offensive threats.
Question 4: Which ballpark is the most hitter-friendly in 2024?
Answer 4: Coors Field in Denver, Colorado is the most hitter-friendly ballpark in 2024. The high altitude and thin air in Denver make it easier for hitters to hit home runs. In 2023, Coors Field ranked first in the MLB in home runs per game.
Question 5: What is the home run record in a single season?
Answer 5: The home run record in a single season is 73, set by Barry Bonds in 2001. Bonds’ record has stood for over 20 years and is considered to be one of the most unbreakable records in sports.
Question 6: Who are some dark horse candidates to win the 2024 MLB home run title?
Answer 6: Some dark horse candidates to win the 2024 MLB home run title include Yordan Alvarez, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Freddie Freeman. All three players have shown the ability to hit for power in the past and could be in for a big season in 2024.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the 2024 MLB home run race. As the season gets closer, be sure to stay up-to-date on all the latest news and storylines surrounding the race for the home run title.
In addition to the FAQ section above, here are some additional tips for following the 2024 MLB home run race:
Tips
Looking for ways to stay up-to-date on the 2024 MLB home run race? Here are four tips:
Tip 1: Follow MLB on social media.
MLB has a strong presence on social media, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Follow MLB on these platforms to get the latest news, highlights, and analysis on the home run race.
Tip 2: Listen to MLB podcasts.
There are a number of great MLB podcasts that cover the home run race in depth. Some popular podcasts include the MLB Network’s “Hot Stove” and “The Baseball Show,” as well as ESPN’s “Baseball Tonight” and “The Lowe Post.”
Tip 3: Read MLB blogs.
There are also a number of MLB blogs that provide excellent coverage of the home run race. Some popular blogs include FanGraphs, Baseball Prospectus, and The Athletic.
Tip 4: Watch MLB games.
Of course, the best way to stay up-to-date on the home run race is to watch MLB games. Tune in to your favorite team’s games or watch national broadcasts on ESPN, Fox, or TBS.
By following these tips, you can stay informed and entertained throughout the 2024 MLB home run race.
The 2024 MLB home run race is sure to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With so many talented sluggers in the league, it is anyone’s guess who will come out on top. Be sure to follow the tips above to stay up-to-date on all the latest news and storylines surrounding the race for the home run title.
Conclusion
The 2024 MLB home run race is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With a number of talented sluggers in the mix, it is anyone’s guess who will come out on top.
Some of the favorites to win the home run title include Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. However, there are also a number of newcomers who could make a run at the title, such as Corbin Carroll and Wander Franco.
The race for the home run title is sure to be a thrilling one, and it will be interesting to see who comes out on top. Be sure to follow the tips above to stay up-to-date on all the latest news and storylines surrounding the race for the home run title.
No matter who wins the home run title in 2024, one thing is for sure: it is going to be a lot of fun to watch.