Jeff Passan Slams MLB’s New Home Run Derby Format: ‘It’s Going to Stink’
ESPN’s Jeff Passan has voiced strong criticism against the new format for the 2026 MLB Home Run Derby, which reduces the number of swings per round. Passan fears the change will make the event feel ‘clunky’ and slow, undoing the urgency brought by the previous timer-based system. While acknowledging the excitement of seeing superstars hit home runs, he hopes the format doesn’t negatively impact the viewing experience.