Welcome to the 2015 Home Run Derby!
Home Run Derby has become a very anticipated event every year. This year with some new rule changes, the event promised to be even better. Of course, there was an extra sense of anticipation due to the presence of hometown hero, Todd Frazier. That afternoon brought huge thunderstorms to the area, but the worst rain just missed downtown. With electricity in the air, we headed down to the ballpark.
My favorite building from the week.
Hey look it is two-time MVP Joe Morgan!
The park was packed and ready for the fireworks sure to come.
Lots of people. Lines everywhere. In fact, we tried to get something to eat but the lines were so long we gave up and headed back to the seats empty-handed. However, Amanda came to our rescue with the most important (non-authentic cap) souvenir from any game: Ice Cream Batting Helmets.
Can’t beat ice cream for dinner! We were ready for the night.
Pre-Game
First, a performance of “Shut Up and Dance” by Cincinnati band Walk the Moon.
Ken Griffey, Jr. throwing out the first pitch.
The introduction of the Derby participants.
The Competition
First up, Kris Bryant.
The fireworks exploded all night with each home run. I love the expression of the kid on the video board who had just caught a ball.
Then it was time for the local guy. The entire stadium went nuts.
The Todd Father started quickly.
As they say on the playground: Score Board
The Awesome Smoke Stacks
Here is The Machine – Albert Pujols
For the final round we moved out to the pavilion in right field. Nice view of Kentucky from where we watched the final round.
During the game, they asked everyone to participate in the Stand Up for Cancer. We were brought to tears as we stood among everyone with their own signs honoring their cancer heroes. For a simple ceremony, it packs quite an emotional punch.
Here we are watching the last couple of swings.
Frazier about to win.
The stadium literally erupted with Frazier’s victory.
The champion and a foul pole.
Couple of random moments from the night.
Epilogue
We did finally get dinner. Midnight pizza as Mac officially crossed over from 10 to 11 years old.
