MLB changed the format of the HR Derby this year. Each participant was given 4 minutes to hit as many home runs. Participants were also paired off and went head to head elimination style tournament. Seems like these changes worked for MLB as they posted higher ratings than 2015 NBA All Star Events.
This was the first year since Ken Griffey Jr. that I watch the entire home run derby. The new format was packed with excitement. I hope MLB stays with it.
HR Derby gets 4.9 overnight rating, beats 2015 NBA Saturday Night (Slam Dunk/3 Point Contests), which got a 4.4.
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) July 14, 2015