Albert Pujols Announces His Own Entrance Into the HR Derby

This will be one Home Run Derby to remember. The field includes everything from a two-time defending champion, to a living legend. And how do we know? Because that legend made sure to post his confirmation of the news on social media. 

The rumors are true. I’m back for one more Home Run Derby. See you in Hollywood! pic.twitter.com/H97IEIXAJ5

— Albert Pujols (@PujolsFive) July 12, 2022

This will be the 42-year-old's 5th Home Run Derby, following 2003, 2007, 2009 and 2015. He was recently also named to the All-Star team proper, with a special "Commissioner's Clause" that was written into the new CBA. Fellow living legend Miguel Cabrera was also honored, on the AL team.

The HR Derby will take place at Dodger Stadium during the All-Star Break next week. Pujols will get to perform in the city he made his home, both last season with the Dodgers later in the year, and for the previous decade with the Los Angeles Angels. 

Pujols has 684 career home runs—the most of any HR Derby participant at the time of the contest—3 MVPs and two World Series championships.

The rest of the field for the derby is looking like a good one, and includes Ronald Acuna Jr. of the Atlanta Braves, Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies, and New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso, who will try to become the first player to win the All-Star Home Run Derby three consecutive times.

Yes, he's going for the "Three-Pete".

Photo Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports