Matt Chapman Replaces Injured Christian Yelich in Home Run Derby
By Michael Luciano
As fun as it would have been to see Christian Yelich park home runs halfway up the Progressive Field bleachers in right field, we won't be able to see the reigning MVP in the 2019 Home Run Derby in Cleveland.
A back injury forced MLB's leader in home runs out of the competition. His replacement is Oakland Athletics third baseman Matt Chapman, who was named to his first All-Star team this year.
Matt Chapman will replace Christian Yelich (back injury) in tomorrow’s #HRDerby. pic.twitter.com/bTTe39EeWK
— MLB (@MLB) July 7, 2019
Chapman has hit 21 home runs this season. While he may not have a reputation as a slugger that can hit the ball 450 feet on command, his average home run distance is the exact same (405 feet) as Cody Bellinger, Mookie Betts, and teammate Matt Olson.
Chapman's father Jim will throw to him at the derby. This strategy worked for Robinson Cano and Bryce Harper in the past, so why couldn't it work for Chapman?
A's Matt Chapman selected as Home Run Derby replacement; his dad, Jim, will share in moment: “I’m excited and nervous at the same time. It’s so last minute, it’s kind of crazy. ... Matt and I have always talked about this, and the moment is finally here.” https://t.co/u2UFPrkGhW
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) July 7, 2019
While Yelich not being able to participate is disappointing, the league reacted quickly and managed to secure a spot for one of the best young sluggers in all of baseball.
Chapman is fully deserving of the honor, slugging .534 this year, a career-best, as in his third year in the league, he's proving to have developed a power stroke.