Advertisement

Guelph Royals announce plans for a home run derby

The Guelph Royals have announced a home run derby in August. Getty Images

While their Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) season may have been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Guelph Royals have announced a unique way to return to the diamond this summer.

The team says it will be hosting a home run derby in August that will feature eight players.

Only one player has been announced as a participant so far and that is the Royals’ first baseman, Sean Reilly, who is also the league’s all-time home run leader.

The single-elimination tournament will feature five-minute rounds with a 30-second timeout. The Royals said the event will also allow for social distancing at all times.

Click to play video: 'Coronavirus: Toronto Maple Leafs training camp begins, Blue Jays practices in limbo'
Coronavirus: Toronto Maple Leafs training camp begins, Blue Jays practices in limbo

More details, including a date and player announcements, will be revealed soon.

Story continues below advertisement

It doesn’t appear fans will be able to attend, but the Royals said video of the derby will be shot in 360-degree virtual reality so they can enjoy the event from home.

Breaking news from Canada and around the world sent to your email, as it happens.

The IBL announced on July 10 that it was cancelling the season for the first time in its 101-year history. At the time the league said teams were planning on holding events and activities at their facilities.

Sponsored content

AdChoices