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MLB Home Run Derby 2023: Picking 8 players to create the perfect bracket

By Zach Pressnell

Jun 7, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz (44) reacts after hitting a two-run home run in the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 7, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz (44) reacts after hitting a two-run home run in the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 18, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) is congratulated by teammates after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 18, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) is congratulated by teammates after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 1 seed Shohei Ohtani vs No. 8 seed Luis Robert Jr

The 2023 dream bracket kicks off with the 1 vs 8 matchup. There is nobody better to take the 1 seed than the Angels Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani is currently tied for the league lead in home runs with 25.

Shohei Ohtani didn’t get off to a great start in his Home Run Derby career, as he lost in the first round in 2021. That doesn’t mean the Japanese superstar won’t make a return to the contest. Ohtani has broken statcast norms this season with some of the most ridiculous swings of the season. His power is ridiculous, with many labeling him as the best player in baseball.

The White Sox outfielder, Luis Robert comes in at fourth on the MLB home run leaderboards. Robert has 21 home runs on the season with some of them being tape measure shots, maxing out at 433 feet. Robert has consistently hit for power, as he was the first player in the MLB to reach 20 home runs and 20 doubles. The White Sox slugger would bring some excitement to the Derby for sure.

Robert has never taken part in the Derby. Shohei hasn’t returned since 2021. This matchup would bring out the best in these two stars.

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