Former College Baseball Players Who Won the MLB Home Run Derby

In the realm of baseball glory, the MLB Home Run Derby stands out as one of the most anticipated events during the All-Star weekend. Only a handful of collegiate stars have managed to transition from their college baseball days to take the crown in this prestigious event, and one standout name is Pete Alonso.

Alonso made history by becoming the first former college baseball player to win back-to-back MLB Home Run Derbies, achieving this feat in 2019 and 2021. His remarkable performance at Coors Field in Denver with the New York Mets showcased his power-hitting abilities honed during his college years.

Prior to Alonso’s back-to-back victories, only two MLB players had successfully defended their Home Run Derby titles – Ken Griffey Jr. and Yoenis Cespedes, making Alonso’s achievement even more remarkable.

The list of former college baseball players who have lifted the MLB Home Run Derby trophy includes iconic names like Wally Joyner, Mark McGwire, Frank Thomas, Barry Bonds, Tino Martinez, Luis Gonzalez, Jason Giambi, Ryan Howard, Todd Frazier, Aaron Judge, and Bryce Harper.

The MLB Home Run Derby winners hail from different conferences and divisions in the NCAA, showcasing the diverse talent that shapes the baseball landscape across college baseball programs.

Among the notable winners, Frank Thomas and Pete Alonso represent the SEC, while Mark McGwire and Barry Bonds left their mark from the Pac-12. It’s a testament to the skill and power these former college baseball players brought to the MLB Home Run Derby stage.