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Pete Alonso’s quest for Home Run Derby immortality fell short Monday when he was defeated in the second round by Seattle Mariners’ rookie Julio Rodriguez.
Alonso, who grew up in Tampa and graduated from Plant High, was attempting to become the first player to win three consecutive Home Run Derby titles. He got through the first round by defeating Ronald Acuña Jr. 20-19 but couldn’t keep pace with Rodriguez in the semifinals, falling 31-24.
Rodriguez lost to Juan Soto in the finals, 20-19.
Next year, Alonso can still join Ken Griffey, Jr. as the only players to win three titles.
– Joe Henderson, Extensive Enterprises Media
