Prince Fielder is the Home Run Derby 2009 Winner

Fielder best field in King Albert’s court

Prince Fielder (Photo: Deadspin.com)

If you watched the Major League Baseball Home Run Derby for 2009, you know that there were no Josh Hamilton explosions to the tune of 28 blasts right out of the gate. Even though he didn’t win last year’s competition, Hamilton set the tone for the crowd-pleasing exhibition.

This year, the totals were somewhat more modest, but there were still smiles all around, particularly on the part of the charities that benefited from the State Farm golden ball promotion. Several players were able to cash in on the opportunity to turn home runs into charitable dollars as they sent the golden balls into the Busch Stadium stands in St. Louis. Fast cash and a big cash advance, all thanks to some very big bats.

Who won the Home Run Derby? Big Prince Fielder

In the process of pandering to All-Star host city St. Louis, MLB.com does manage some truth-telling when it comes to the real king of St. Louis baseball. Yes, the St. Louis Cardinals’ Albert Pujols is the best hitter in baseball. No, the fact that he didn’t win the State Farm Home Run Derby in 2009 does not change that fact. But please, MLB.com - give Milwaukee’s Prince Fielder his due.

People pay more attention to this than the All-Star Game

Quite true, and I myself find it exciting. However, as Commissioner Selig has decreed that the league that wins the All-Star Game (American or National) will have home advantage in the World Series, there is some significance to the game that the Home Run Derby doesn’t have, at least in terms of an effect on games played. Thus, the game is more significant to me, and it presents real-game situations that a true baseball fan can relish. Big swings and long home runs off a batting practice pitcher are no big deal by comparison. As baseball is a great American game, I say that poseur fans who think that the Home Run Derby represents real baseball should stay home and play their baseball video games. Let the real fans attend the games. ... click here to read the rest of the article titled "Prince Fielder is the Home Run Derby 2009 Winner"