Albert Pujols Home Run Derby highlights: Cardinals legend stuns Kyle Schwarber

Albert Pujols was supposed to be an honorary Home Run Derby contestant. Instead, he pulled off the upset of the night. 

Whenever Albert Pujols was added to the MLB Home Run Derby, most just assumed it was a career achievement award more than anything. And when Pujols got to the plate in the first round, facing off against the top seed at Dodger Stadium, Kyle Schwarber from the Phillies, it seemed like that might be the case.

Pujols was chugging along but didn’t hit the ball 440 feet twice to get extra bonus time. As such, he ended his 3:30 with 13 home runs.

However, there was a great sign of respect from all of the players on the field as, before his 30 seconds of bonus time, he was swarmed and shown a ton of love.

Albert Pujols Home Run Derby highlights: Cardinals star pulls off huge upset

But then the incredible happened. Schwarber struggled to find his groove and, after his bonus time, also ended with just 13 homers, thus forcing a 60-second swing-off between the two players.

Then, Pujols came out and sent electricity through LA with enough of a surge to cause a blackout, smashing seven dingers to get his total up to 20.

Schwarber tried mightily but was unable to get it done as he came up short. Against all odds, that sent the 42-year-old Pujols through to the semifinals and an eventual matchup with Juan Soto. Schwarber was a terrific sport, though, showing respect and tipping his cap to Pujols.

You have to think that Pujols was only expecting one round worth of home run swings. So if The Machine needs some oil after the All-Star break, don’t be surprised.